asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that in the past slates from the Valentia quarries were extensively used and were of first-class quality; and, if so, whether he is prepared to allocate a grant for the purpose of having this slate tested with a view to the reopening of the quarries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Valentia Slate Quarries.
I am advised that the slate deposits in Valentia are not suitable for use in roofing. The deposits were examined by experts in 1929 and again in 1933, and I am satisfied that a further survey at State expense would not be justified. All the information available in my Department will, however, be placed at the disposal of any private interests which wish to explore the deposits.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that when the inspection was being carried out the manager of the Killaloe slate quarries was the man selected to report on the deposit and, in view of that fact, we can assume that he would not give a fair report in regard to the quarries in Valentia? I suggest that that is the report that is available in the Department.
I am not so aware but two geologists reported in March, 1929, and one of them made a separate report in 1932 which confirmed substantially the earlier report. Both reports emphasised that it would be difficult, costly and dangerous to develop the quarry, and expressed the opinion that it was not a workable proposition.