asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he has yet taken any step towards the erection of a new cement factory.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state the progress made in the erection of a third cement factory with a view to meeting the increased demand for cement.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state when a decision will be made regarding the extension of the cement factory at Castlemungret, County Limerick.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 51, 52 and 53 together.

Arrangements have been made with Cement, Limited, for the extension of the factories at Drogheda and Limerick. An announcement by the company can be expected within a few days.

May I take it that these arrangements involve the agreement of the Minister to sanction a higher percentage of profit to Irish Cement, Ltd.?

That is a separate question.

The Deputy had better await the announcement by the company.

Does the Minister contradict that now?

I could not give a "yes" or "no" answer.