HC Deb 20 June 1917 vol 94 cc1794-5
68. Mr. NUGENT

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) if he can state whether any steps have been taken to ascertain whether the Tyrone coalfield dips under Lough Neagh and is part of the Antrim coalfield, or whether any means have been taken to find out the extent and value of the Northern Irish coalfield referred to?

Sir T. W. RUSSELL (Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture, Ireland)

The Tyrone coalfield dips towards Lough Neagh, but boring operations would be necessary to ascertain how far the coal seams extend in that direction. The coalfields of Tyrone and Antrim do not occur in the same geological formation. I would refer the hon. Member to the memoir and map No. 35 of the Geological Survey, which contains information as to the Tyrone coalfield. There are also 6-inch maps. A report has been obtained upon the Coalisland area from the economic geologist attached to the Department of Agriculture.

69. Mr. NUGENT

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) if he will state what steps, if any, have been taken by the geographical survey branch of the Department to bring under the notice of the Government the value of Irish peat deposits and of Irish minerals, especially coal and iron pyrites?

Sir T. RUSSELL

The Department of Agriculture and the Geological Survey have been in communication with the Ministry of Munitions as to Irish mineral resources, and inquiries are at present being carried out. The Department's economic geologist is a member of the Advisory Committee appointed by the Ministry of Munitions in connection with the matter.

Mr. NUGENT

When will those inquiries be completed—will they wait until after the War?

Sir T. RUSSELL

I cannot answer that question.

Mr. O'DOWD

May I ask whether the district of Arigna, which is rich in minerals, will be included in any investigation that may take place?

Sir T. RUSSELL

The Department knows everything that can be known about the Arigna coalfields.

Mr. FIELD

But what is the Department doing in the way of inquiry at the present time?

Mr. NUGENT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that nobody in the country believes one word about the Department knowing everything about these matters?