asked the Minister for Energy the progress, if any, which has been made towards the reopening of Ballingarry Mines in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Ballingarry (Tipperary) Mines.
459.
The company holding the State Mining Lease over the Ballingarry coalfield is in receivership since January 1985. I understand that the receiver proposes to advertise the lease for sale shortly. Before any sale could be finalised, however, it would be necessary for the receiver to obtain my approval for the sale. I cannot predict the timing of future developments but I can assure the Deputy that my Department will do what it can to secure a resumption of operations at Ballingarry on an efficient and viable basis as quickly as possible.