asked the Minister for Energy whether he is aware of the problem of dangerous mineshafts at Bran Head, Crookhaven and Dhurade Copper Mines, County Cork; if he will respond to the requests of Cork County Council so that the problem can be dealt with before the start of the tourist season.

My Department is aware of the problems associated with these abandoned mineshafts. I have arranged a meeting on 15 April between officers of my Department and of Cork County Council to ensure early progress in securing these shafts.

I am thankful to the Minister for his ready response to my question. I would hope, as a result of the meeting to take place on 15 April, the necessary exchange of information can take place so that steps can be taken to secure these shafts before the beginning of the tourist season. Will the Minister confirm that he will use his best efforts to ensure that that objective is achieved?

As the Deputy will note, I have been asked to take some action on the matter. I have arranged a meeting for 15 April. I would remind the Deputy that this matter was first brought to ministerial attention in March 1983 and has been dragging on ever since. I am now taking some action on it which hopefully will lead to a solution.

I should like an assurance from the Minister — he will understand my concern in the light of the oncoming tourist season — that, as a follow up to the meeting of 15 April, necessary steps will be taken to ensure that these mineshafts are made safe?

The whole object of the meeting is to ensure early progress in securing the shafts.

I hope that objective will be achieved.

It was not achieved for four years but, hopefully, will be now.