andMr. Carty asked the Minister for Transport and Power if, having regard to the increased demand for peat briquettes, it is the intention of Bord na Móna to erect an additional briquette factory; and, if so, where it will be located.

Proposals by Bord na Móna for the erection of a peat briquette factory in association with the Blackwater group of bogs, County Offaly, are under consideration. I cannot say, at this stage, where the factory would be located.

Is it so that the only considerations entertained by Bord na Móna would be the practical considerations of the suitability of the bog and its technical advantages in its particular locality rather than any pressures in a political sense?

Bord na Móna have always chosen the areas for turf development on technical considerations, but the number of bogs suitable for development for either the manufacture of briquettes or milled peat are limited in character throughout the country. Every single bog capable of development is in fact being exploited.

Is the Minister aware that a number of Deputies have taken it on themselves to go around the country saying they were responsible for getting a Bord na Móna factory for their area?