asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state whether there has been any progress made during the past six months in connection with the proposed development of a rural electrification scheme for the Iveragh peninsula; and, if so, the extent of the progress made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Electrification Scheme.
I would refer the Deputy to the reply to his question on 2nd April, 1952. I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that they are at present preparing detailed plans for the development of the Cummeragh River. They are not, however, in a position at this stage to say when actual development work is likely to commence.
Is the Minister aware that this matter has been under consideration for three years? Surely it is time that some definite decision could be reached?
A definite decision has been reached.
Would he also state if they are considering the erection of a turf-generating station or have they definitely decided against it?
So far as the Cummeragh River is concerned, a definite decision has been reached. So far as the turf-fired generating station is concerned, I would refer the Deputy to the reply I gave Deputy Flynn a few weeks ago.
There seems to be some clashing in regard to these two projects, and I believe that the Minister's Department is responsible for this and for the delay of the whole scheme.
The Deputy can be certain there is no clash. His information is entirely wrong.