asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy (a) if his attention has been drawn to a report in a Sunday newspaper (details supplied) alleging gross wastefulness, incompetence and maladministration in Bord na Móna; (b) if he caused this report to be investigated and, if so, with what results; and (c) if he will now make a statement on the matter.

I have had this report investigated and have obtained detailed information from Bord na Móna about each of the allegations which it contains. I am satisfied from my investigations that there is no substance in any of the allegations.

I am glad to hear that. I ask the Minister to accept that in putting the question down I intended no reflection on Bord na Móna nor did I wish to associate myself with the allegation. I only wanted to have the story investigated.