asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he will state the cause of the delay in introducing a Mining Bill, and whether, in view of the fact that so much unemployment exists in the Free State, he will introduce such a Bill immediately.

A Bill dealing with mines and minerals will be introduced as soon as the general legislative programme permits. In this connection I may say that I have no evidence to indicate that any mineral developments likely to afford substantial employment are at present delayed for the want of legislation regulating such developments.

Would the Minister state if any person or persons applied to his Department for permission to work for minerals in Kerry?

It is hard for me to say. I believe there are people who are asking for permission, but whether that is for Kerry or not. I cannot say just from memory. That does not, however, negative the answer I have given.