asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of any proposal to construct an oil refinery on the shores of Lough Swilly, County Donegal.

I am not aware of any current proposals to construct an oil refinery on the shores of Lough Swilly.

Is the Minister aware that land in the area of the Inishowen Peninsula is being sought in large quantities at, perhaps, an enhanced value in terms of agricultural use but at a value much below its potential for industrial use? Is the Parliamentary Secretary not aware of plans by some international combine related to the oil industry who have been buying up a route for a pipeline from this area for the purpose of piping into a processing plant the potential oil that may be found off the north-west coast?

Neither the Department nor the IDA are aware of any active proposal to construct an oil refinery at Lough Swilly.

Nobody knows who these people are.

In 1973 there was a proposal to build a refinery at Fort Lenan on Lough Swilly. The site proposed was State property under the control of the Minister for Finance. In May 1973 preliminary discussions took place between promoters of the project and representatives of the IDA as well as the OPW, the Departments of Local Government and Transport and Power. However, no progress was made following these discussions and the promoters did not pursue the matter. Donegal County Council have indicated that no planning application was made to them at any stage in respect of the proposed refinery or of any other refinery or oil-related project on Lough Swilly.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary convey to the Minister our concern as to the activities of these unknown persons and that they not be allowed to buy up land which may be most valuable in the not too distant future?

I agree with the Deputy that the concern of the people in the area should be set at rest and I trust that the information I have given to the House will be of assistance in the matter.