asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state on what grounds he authorised an increase in the charge to Dublin consumers for gas when, as shown by the gas company's report, their revenue increased within the first six months of this year by £90,000, only £5,000 of which came from the increased price charged for gas; and if, in addition to the reduction in price now announced, he will cause a refund to be made to the public of the amount already collected by means of an increased charge which does not appear justified by production costs.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Increase in Price of Gas in Dublin.
I presume the Deputy refers to the price increase in gas supplied to Dublin consumers which took effect in March last. The necessity for that increase is to be found in the serious situation of the gas company in the latter half of 1944. Although the company's revenue increased by £90,000 in the first six months of this year, the profits of the company for the 12 months ended the 30th June last were not unreasonable. I do not consider, therefore, that the company should be asked to make a refund to the public as suggested by the Deputy.