asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he will state, in the light of the possibility of a commercial oil find off the Waterford coast, the efforts that have been made to attract buyers for Ross Company, New Ross, who are experienced builders of ships and oil rigs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - New Ross Company Purchase.
255.
As the Deputy will appreciate, a considerable amount of further appraisal work will have to be done before it can be determined if the oil discovered in the Celtic Sea off Waterford constitutes a commercial find. If that proves to be the case, the Deputy may be assured that every effort will be made to ensure that the maximum employment opportunities are provided for Irish manufacturers and those in a position to provide services and other facilities required.
I would like to reassure the Deputy that the IDA are maintaining their efforts to find suitable interests to acquire the yard and resume work there. For that purpose, suitable emphasis would be placed, as opportune, on the facilities which the yard would have to offer in the event of there being a commercial oil find.