asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether finality has been reached with reference to the proposed establishment of a factory at Sligo for the production of phosphates and by-products; and, if not, when a decision is likely.

The promoters of a proposal to produce ground phosphate rock at Sligo have been in communication with me. Representations relating to certain facilities desired in connection with the proposed industry have been fully examined both in my Department and in the Department of Agriculture, and I have recently communicated to the promoters the views of both the Minister for Agriculture and myself on the points at issue. A decision as to whether or not the proposal should be implemented is now solely a matter for these promoters.