asked the Minister for Energy whether he is satisfied that Mogul of Ireland Ltd. has discharged fully the conditions upon which a mining licence was granted to it specifically in regard to the fact that there are 148 acres covered in mine waste which is causing a serious nuisance and possibly health hazards to residents across a wide area of adjacent countryside over which this mine waste is blown by wind in clouds of dust; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Under the terms of the State mining lease granted to the company in question I may require the company to carry out certain works in the leasehold area. On 23 January 1985 my Department sought an assurance from the company that it will take remedial measures to deal with dust-blow from the tailings pond and requested an outline of what these measures will be. The company's reply is awaited. On receipt of the company's response I will further consider its position in relation to discharge of the conditions under which the lease was granted.

I am aware that the company is in contact with Tipperary (NR) County Council regarding short term treatment of the tailings pond in the first instance and on longer term measures to remedy the present position.