asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the activities of mineral survey teams in Mayo; and what progress is being made in this survey work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mayo Mineral Survey.
40.
Mineral exploration is at present being carried out by private concerns under 51 prospecting licences in County Mayo.
Information given to me about the results of prospecting under these licences cannot be revealed without the consent of the prospectors.
May I inquire from the Minister if he is satisfied that the people engaged on this work are supplying correct information to his Department or to him personally in connection with the exploration?
I have no reason for believing they are not.
Is the Minister aware that 90 or 100 years ago mining was carried on in Ballycastle and other centres in County Mayo?
The Deputy seems to be giving information instead of asking for it.
I asked the Minister was he aware that mining operations went on for years in this region, and that exploration teams have been engaged in this region and are inclined to adopt a closed-mouth attitude in regard to their operations. Would the Minister take the necessary steps to have a geologist from his own Department carry out investigations there with a view to satisfying the Minister and this House that these people are not withholding information from the Minister?
There are, as I have said, 51 prospecting licences operating in County Mayo, and I am worried about the implications of the sweeping statement which the Deputy has made. He obviously feels there is something wrong in this regard and I should be very grateful if he would communicate with me so that we can narrow down the complaints he is making. I have no reason for believing my Department are not getting full information.
The Minister may rest assured the information I have is reliable and I shall make it available to him.