asked the Minister for Lands if he will state whether he has yet reached a decision respecting the production of alginate in Ireland, and whether, in view of the large deposits of seaweed along the west coast of Clare, he will consider it as a site for the establishment of an industry for the preliminary processes of manufacture and/or the final process.

The preliminary processing for the production of alginates is carried out in the factory at Kilkerrin and an expansion of the industry cannot be decided on until it can be established that such expansion would be warranted. If it is decided to set up another factory the claims of all suitable areas, including any in West Clare, will be considered.

asked the Minister for Lands if he will state (a) the number of shares purchased by him in Alginate Industries (Ireland) Ltd.; (b) the price paid per share, and (c) the person or firm from whom they were purchased.

The information required is as follows:—

(a) 3,059 shares;

(b) One pound;

(c) Messrs. Thos. McDonogh and Sons Ltd., and their nominees.

Will the Minister state if, at the date of purchase, the shares were worthless?

The Minister will state no such thing.