Tara Mines royalty negotiations
Mac Giolla pressed the Minister to explain why royalties had remained unpaid after two years. Collins said the dispute with the Revenue Commissioners might involve arbitration or litigation, making further comment inappropriate.
It does not relate to this. The same answer as before has been given. The Minister is telling us about the complexities. Can the Minister say after two years what are the complexities? What is preventing the State from saying to Tara Mines: "You owe us so much in royalties. Pay them up"? What is the problem?
Comment on this
I have tried to explain that this is a matter for complex negotiation and perhaps a contest between Tara Mines and the Revenue Commissioners. It may involve the arbitration procedure and perhaps litigation. In those circumstances it would be inappropriate for me to go into this matter which has been raised by the company with the Revenue Commissioners.
