asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has noted the statement by the Director General of the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards that a group to assess the country's mineral reserves should be set up; and if he will make a statement on the recommendation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mineral Reserves Assessment.
20.
I have noted the statement by the Director General of the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards.
The nature and functions of State organisations in relation to the development of our natural resources are matters which I have at present under consideration. The course proposed by the Director General of the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards is one of a number to which I shall have regard in the course of my consideration of this problem.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary not agree that it is common sense in having one body to carry out the assessment rather than the Geological Survey and the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards?
The whole question of the attribution of powers and responsibilities in this matter is being examined at a high level in the Department of Industry and Commerce.