asked the Minister for Energy the progress, if any, made towards the opening of Ballingarry collieries, Thurles, County Tipperary; the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Ballingarry (Tipperary) Collieries.
40.
The present position in regard to Ballingarry collieries is that the receiver of Flair Resources (Ireland) Ltd., the existing lessee, is experiencing certain legal difficulties in relation to assignment of the lease free of encumbrance to any potential operator. Contacts with the various parties involved are proceeding and I am hopeful that it will be possible to conclude arrangements shortly whereby a party which has expressed interest in taking over the lease will be in a position to commence feasibility studies in the coalfield.