asked the Minister for Energy when he first had discussions on the future use of Whitegate Oil Refinery in County Cork with representatives of the Ecuadorian Government; if he directed these representatives to private individuals rather than the INPC; if so, the reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Whitegate Oil Refinery.
29.
The Deputy will be aware that the Minister for Industry and Commerce was the Fianna Fáil spokesman on Energy matters during the period of office of the last Government. During that period, contact was made with him on behalf of the Ecuadorian Consulate in Dublin in regard to possible oil investments in this country. These contacts were exploratory in nature.
Shortly after his appointment as Minister for Industry and Commerce, further meetings took place. The Minister referred the representative to the IDA and a meeting took place with IDA executives on 12 May 1987 to consider possible sites for a new oil refinery.
The Minister for Industry and Commerce does not have the powers to direct the representative of any Government in any particular direction.
That disposes of questions, ordinary and priority, for today.