asked the Minister for Industry and Energy the arrangements he proposes for the reconstruction of the Whiddy Oil Terminal; and the steps he will take to utilise the facility in the national interest.
Written Answers. - Whiddy Oil Terminal.
312.
The oil terminal on Whiddy Island was not itself damaged in the "Betelgeuse" disaster of January 1979. Part of the jetty was destroyed. The question of jetty reconstruction is one primarily for the Gulf company, having regard to the provisions of the foreshore lease and such safety and other requirements as may be made by appropriate Government Departments.
In the matter of utilisation of the terminal I can say that my Department have been in discussion with the company and with third parties exploring possible arrangements which would allow more strategic oil stocks to be held at the terminal or have the terminal restored to operational status by other means. These discussions are continuing.