asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware of the fact that the Electricity Supply Board has stated that in its present financial position it is unable to give an electricity supply to Tallaght, Clondalkin, Saggart and Rathcoole, notwithstanding that a substantial demand for electricity for lighting and industrial purposes exists in these districts, and, if so, whether he will make representations to the Minister for Finance to provide the Board with the finances necessary to enable it to complete its constructional programme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity Supply in Co. Dublin.
The advances which may be made to the Board are limited by the provisions of Section 12, sub-section (3), of the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1927. The sum mentioned in that sub-section was estimated to be sufficient to enable a supply of electricity to be given to all places having 500 inhabitants or over. If the Board has a constructional programme for which that sum is insufficient I have not yet been furnished with information enabling me to judge whether an increase in the sum would be justified on economic grounds, having regard to all the factors which must be taken into consideration.
Has the Minister asked for the information?
Yes.
Does he anticipate that it will be furnished within a reasonable period?
I cannot prophesy.
Is the Minister unwilling to prophesy?
I cannot.