Mr. Wm. Rossasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he has received since 1 February regarding a shortage of heating oil in Northern Ireland; and if he will list the public amenities and schools closed up to 21 February due to a shortage of heating oil.
§ Mr. ConcannonThe Northern Ireland Department of Commerce has received representations from three hon. Members.
It is known that one branch library in Strabane and a divisional library headquarters in Newry were closed for one and two days respectively during the period 1–21 February 1979. I have no reports of schools closing due to shortage of heating oil during this period.
Mr. Wm. Rossasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much heating oil was used in Northern Ireland in 1978; and how much is now in storage in the Province.
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§ Mr. ConcannonIt is estimated that 100,000 tonnes of "burning oil"—paraffin used for heating—and 383,000 tonnes of "gas" oil—used for non-road diesel engines and for heating—were consumed during the first 11 months of 1978. I regret that it is not possible to determine how much "gas" oil was used for heating, nor how much oil for heating is now in storage.