asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he has any proposals to ensure that Tara Mines Limited and Bula Limited cooperate in preventing duplication of facilities in mining the Navan ore-body.

As I indicated in the House on 20 October 1977, the two mining companies have legal rights to develop their respective portions of the Navan orebody and the manner in which they are doing, or plan to do, this is primarily a matter for them. These rights are, of course, subject to the terms of the lease and agreements to which I am a party and subject also to planning and other statutory requirements.

At the present time, and particularly in view of the fact that one of the companies has not yet obtained planning permission for its mining development, it is not feasible to suggest the kind of working relationship between the two operators which would be most appropriate. The fullest co-operation between them is clearly desirable, in the national interest, and I will do what I can to promote such co-operation.

Was there a study commissioned some time ago on the course of the underground river which lies between the two companies and has that study produced any results?

As stated in reply to questions on a number of occasions, this study is under way. There were some delays and some changes in expert personnel involved and it is now hoped the result of this study will be available before the end of the year.

Is adequate co-operation taking place between Tara and Bula specifically with regard to expediting the formulation of plans for the diversion of the Blackwater?

I am satisfied that there is now a greater level of co-operation between the two companies in their approach than there was to the would-be expert that was appointed and I am satisfied the work is proceeding now at a rapid rate and I am hopeful the report will be in before the end of the year.

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