asked the Minister for Industry and Energy how many applications for mining coal are currently before the Mining Board; the date on which each application was received; the identity of each applicant; and the area to which each application relates.

Applications for the mining of coal are not dealt with by the Mining Board. However, the board's functions include the consideration of applications made to them under section 15 of the Minerals Development Act, 1979 for the registration of minerals, including coal, as excepted minerals and this perhaps is what the Deputy has in mind. The question is being dealt with on that assumption and the reply is in the form of a tabular statement, which with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to circulate with the Official Report.

Following is the statement:

There are currently 16 applications before the Mining Board. Particulars of the identity of each applicant, the date of each application and the area to which each application refers are as follows:

Applications for the registration of coal reserves as excepted minerals under section 15 of the Minerals Development Act, 1979

Again, not wishing to embarrass the Minister, can he say whether he gives preference to Irish interests in these applications? There are some Irish interests who have some experience in this area and I understand that there have been applications from some cross-channel interests also. Without adopting the all-embracing phraseology that the Minister used in replying to the last question, does he give preference to Irish interests or has he adopted any position in relation to nationality in these matters.

I always encourage Irish interests in every sphere provided that the job can be done.