asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will arrange for an examination by experts of the copper mines at Rathnaveogue, Roscrea, County Tipperary, with a view to having them reopened for production.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tipperary Copper Mines.
The copper deposits at Rathnaveogue have been examined on a number of occasions and the information secured about them is recorded in the Geological Survey. It has been brought to the notice of persons likely to be interested in under-taking minerals exploration and development work there.
The Deputy will appreciate that the development and working of mineral resources are matters for private enterprise. I will be prepared to grant any necessary facilities under the Minerals Development Act, 1940, in relation to the Rathnaveogue deposits, to any person who satisfies the customary conditions as to financial and technical resources.
Will the Minister be prepared to add to such a licence an assurance about copper prices?