Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 24 May 1990

Vol. 399 No. 2

Written Answers. - Arigna Coal Reserves.

John Connor

Question:

37 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Energy if his Department have requested a report from the Geological Survey, or any other competent body, on the remaining coal reserves of all grades, in the Arigna mining area, Counties Roscommon and Leitrim; and if his Department views the coal reserves in Arigna as being of any significance in terms of national energy reserves, in light of recent developments in the Arigna mining industry.

Dick Spring

Question:

60 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Energy the steps, if any, he has taken in conjunction with the ESB to provide for alternative employment in the Arigna area following the announcement of the closure of the ESB Arigna power station; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Energy (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 60 together.

It is widely known that there are substantial deposits of very low grade, subbituminous "crow coal" in the area. This "crow coal" comprises of up to 70 per cent stone and is unsuitable for burning at Arigna power station or for domestic use. However, in response to claims by both the mineworkers and some of the owners in the Arigna area about the extent of usable coal reserves there, I asked the Geological Survey Office of Ireland to carry out a survey of the reserve levels and their quality so as to get an accurate assessment of the situation. I expect to have their report within the next few weeks. Until then, I cannot comment on the significance of these possible reserves.

The cost of constructing a new power station at Arigna or indeed to refurbish the existing plant to enable it to burn the "crow coal" would in the present economic climate be prohibitive and the enormous level of investment required could not be justified.

In February 1990, I set up a task force to examine alternative employment options in the Arigna area and it is to report its findings to me by next August. The ESB have agreed to continue to accept coal supplies from the local mines until then, so as to give the task force the necessary breathing space to complete their report.