The Minister said that a decision was imminent. Can I take it that that decision will be made in the absence of a public inquiry?

Yes, unless the decision on Carnsore Point has been made by the Wexford County Council in the meantime, and the Minister for the Environment together with the planning board have ordered an oral inquiry on the planning application.

Do I take it from the Minister's reply that if the decision is imminent there will be no public inquiry, that the Government will make a decision on the whole question of nuclear energy in advance of any public inquiry?

The Deputy can take what he likes from it.

Is that what is meant? I am not trying to trick the Minister or anything.

If Wexford County Council make a decision in the meantime, and the planning board together with the Minister for the Environment nominate an oral hearing, that may happen prior to the Government making a decision, but at this stage there are no plans for other public inquiries.

I am sorry to be labouring the point, but we are seeking information about a very major financial investment. Do I take it from the reply that the decision of the Wexford County Council on the planning merits or demerits of a nuclear power installation will determine the Government's policy with regard to the investment of £¼ billion?

No.

That is the only form of public inquiry that is envisaged at the moment.

Yes.