asked the Minister for Energy if he has requested the IDA to undertake a review of the possibility of building an ore smelter in the vicinity of the Shannon Estuary; and, if so, if he will outline the terms of reference for that review.
Written Answers. - Ore Smelter.
80.
I have recently requested the IDA to carry out a review of the prospects for the establishment of a zinc smelter in Ireland. A detailed investigation of the project was carried out by the IDA in 1977 and it has reviewed the project periodically since then. In view of the long standing involvement of the Authority with the project I have not given detailed terms of reference to the Authority for purposes of the review other than to require that the review have regard to changes in recent years in metal prices, exchange rates and in electricity costs.