andMr. Ormondeasked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will have a survey made of the copper mines at Bonmahon, County Waterford, with a view to the commercial exploitation of the deposits.

These mines were recently surveyed in connection with the technical assistance project for mineral exploration. The results of the survey showed that the prospects of commercial exploitation are remote. I am satisfied, therefore, that further exploration in the area would not be justified.