asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he will furnish particulars of the estimated cost and production capacity of the proposed briquette factory at Ballyforan: in respect of the (a) original proposal and (b) modified proposal indicating also the approximate loan charges, at current rates of interest applicable to each proposal; the present position regarding this development; and the likely date of construction, including the reasons (if any) for reducing production capacity in a rising market for briquettes which are available to hauliers, but not to the general public, at prices which are significantly lower than the price per tonne of imported solid fuel.
Written Answers. - Ballyforan Briquette Factory.
760.
The overall capital programme estimate for Bord na Móna in 1982 includes a provision for the proposed briquette factory at Ballyforan. The current estimated cost is £36.8 million. The production capacity of the factory is estimated at 260,000 tonnes. No modified proposal has been received by me to date.
The necessary funding for the project will have to be raised by the board. The board are considering a number of possible options but have not yet determined the source or sources of funding. It would, therefore, be premature at this stage to talk about loan charges.
I have recently carried out a review of the development currently being carried out by Bord na Móna. I have had particular regard to the financial resources which the board must derive, in the absence of Exchequer funds, from earnings on the sale of its products, to enable the work to be carried forward. I am satisfied that the result of this review will avoid any material delay in getting work commenced on the briquette factory.
It is estimated that the factory could be brought into commission within two and a half years of the commencement of construction. Work on the bog area, to service the factory, is proceeding.