asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is yet in a position to indicate the result so far of the survey of the Leinster coal fields.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Survey of Leinster Coal Fields.
23.
The drilling so far carried out in the Leinster coalfield has been effective in giving precise information as to the existence of coal, the thickness of the seams and the quality of the coal in certain areas, and as to the absence of coal in other areas.
The survey of the coalfield is still some way short of completion and the full significance of the results being obtained cannot be deduced until information has been gathered from all the planned boreholes. It would be undesirable to give more detailed information until the entire programme has been completed. It is expected that the results will be available at the Geological Survey for inspection by the public about the end of next year.
Will the Minister say when it is expected that this survey will finish?
Two contracts have been completed and the third is in course of being operated. It will finish about June of next year. There may be some backlog while the analysis is being considered but the result should be available before the end of the year.