asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he has received any proposals for coal mining projects in the South Laois area; and the prospects they offer of future coal production.
Written Answers. - Coal Mining Proposals.
296.
The proposals for the reopening of the Rossmore mine, which has been in liquidation since November 1980 have been the subject of discussions between my Department and several prospective purchasers. So far these discussions have not been fruitful but contacts with a U.K.-based company which has expressed an interest in developing the mine are continuing, and I am hopeful that there will be a successful conclusion to the discussions.
There have also been indications of interest in coal mining in other parts of the area but it is too early to say whether mine development will result from these approaches.
297.
asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he has received any proposals for coal mining in the Castlecomer-Clogh area; and the developments, if any, which have ensued.
Applications for State mining facilities in the Castlecomer-Clogh area were made to my Department by a number of interests during 1981. The areas in which the applicants were interested are also the subject of an application to the Mining Board for vesting in the applicant of the right to work the coal deposits in these areas. Pending a decision by the mining board on the application it is not possible for me to give further consideration to applications for State mining facilities in the areas in question.