I propose to take Questions No. 6 and 26 together.
A task force was established in May 1989 in pursuance of the Government's decision of 28 April 1989 to identify all realistic investment options for the facilities at Whitegate, and my predecessor announced the earmarking of funds for that purpose. The task force, assisted by international consultants, are currently evaluating the technical, economic and financial aspects of the investment options identified. Work is well progressed and I expect to receive the recommendations of the task force early in the new year.
In addition, I am continuing to seek an oil producer or an international oil company interested in possible involvement in the proposed upgrading of the refinery. Discussions with interested international parties are ongoing. However, no final proposals are at this stage under consideration in this regard.
While considerations of the proposals made by a consortium which included a Nigerian interest have been terminated, contact between Nigerian and Irish authorities on the future of Irish oil facilities is being maintained.