asked the Minister for Energy if the arbitrator has yet been appointed to consider the dispute between the Government and Tara Mines over royalties due; when it is expected that he will have completed his arbitration; when it is expected that royalty payments will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Tara Mines Royalties.
27.
As I stated on 1 June 1988 in reply to a previous question by Deputy De Rossa, agreement has been reached on the selection of a suitable senior counsel to act as arbitrator on the question at issue in relation to computation of the profits of Tara Mines Ltd. for royalty purposes. Certain preparatory aspects, yet to be resolved, are delaying an approach to the counsel concerned with a view to his appointment. In the circumstances I am not in a position to state when the arbitrator will have completed his findings or when royalty payments may be made.