asked the Minister for Energy if, in view of the fact that Tarbert, County Kerry, received planning permission for an oil refinery, he will consider erecting an oil refinery there.

I understand that Kerry County Council granted planning permission in November 1983 to a private sector company for the construction of an oil refinery at Tarbet County Kerry. There are no plans at this time in my Department to build an oil refinery at the above location.

Is the Minister aware of plans by other companies to build an oil refinery there?

I am not aware of any plans by other companies for the building of a refinery on either side of the Shannon.

I am surprised.