asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether in view of the world shortage of copper any expansion in Irish mining is planned; and, if so, if he will give details.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Expansion of Irish Mining.
40.
The Government does not directly participate in the exploration and development of minerals but provides facilities and incentives to private enterprise to engage in these activities. It would not be appropriate to give details of the proposals of private concerns for the development of copper deposits.
Apart from the proposals of private concerns, are the Government actively concerned in this matter and endeavouring to avail of the increased price of copper in world markets? This appears to give a reasonable prospect of profitably working Irish copper deposits at the present time.
As I said, the Government do not participate directly but they co-operate with private enterprise. I am sure private mining enterprise is aware of the increased price of copper and is sensitive to its attraction.
Are the Government giving encouragement to the use of Irish minerals?
Yes.
Surely the Minister, while perhaps officially correct, is factually incorrect, when he says the Government are not participating, when one considers the background of St. Patrick's Copper Mines? Is the increased price of copper likely to make St. Patrick's Copper Mines again viable?
That is a separate question.
The Minister gave a separate answer.
It certainly adds to the attractions of St. Patrick's. It is the decision of the Government to leave it to private enterprise and it certainly adds attraction to St. Patrick's.
Does this apply to Nitrigin Éireann?
I do not see the connection.
It exists.