asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will state in regard to the decision to investigate the possibility of utilising coal deposits at Arigna (1) when the decision was taken and (2) the present position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Arigna Coal Deposits.
32.
In November, 1959, and on a number of subsequent occasions, representatives of mines in the Arigna coalfield were invited to formulate jointly a project under the Technical Assistance Scheme to investigate the utilisation of lower grade coals in the Arigna coalfield. Examination of this proposal in consultation with the mine owners made it clear that the investigation could most usefully be undertaken in conjunction with the programme of exploration of the Arigna coalfield at present being carried out by the Geological Survey of the Department of Industry and Commerce as part of a Technical Assistance Scheme. The first step, which is now in progress, is to establish the extent and quantity of coal deposits falling within potentially usable specifications. The best lines of investigation into (a) combustion and (b) cleaning are being explored in the meantime and some progress is being made, but until the necessary information about the extent and quality of the deposits is available full scale technical investigations cannot be launched.
When does the Minister expect this information will be made available?
I am not able to state, but everything is being done to expedite the investigations.
I do not want to press the Minister unduly, but can he give some information as to the date on which the investigations will be completed?
It would be very difficult because some of the examination of the technical problems involved is very difficult.
I appreciate that but, in view of that, may I ask the Supplementary Question I asked on Question No. 31? While the investigations are taking place surely the Minister will take steps to protect the livelihood of the miners who are forced to leave the country and go to work in British mines?
I have already indicated to the Deputy that every step is being taken to assist the Arigna coalmines. As the Deputy knows, an E.S.B. power station using only Arigna coal has been erected and is operating in that area. It takes 45,000 tons of coal a year and the E.S.B. are using still further small quantities at Ringsend power station. In order to make a success of this venture, it has to be ascertained if this coal can be used in modern conditions, if it can be processed in such a way that it can be used under modern conditions.
Is the Minister aware that of the eight producers in the Arigna area, one of them supplies 35,000 tons out of the total 45,000 tons, and will he indicate what steps he proposes to take to get a market for the other producers?
I have given the full information to the Deputy.