asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state the present position of the rural electrification scheme; whether any change in the scheme is intended; and what rate of progress it is expected will be achieved this year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Electrification Scheme.
The present position of the rural electrification scheme is that to date 29 areas averaging about 25 square miles have been selected for supply. Of these, construction work is completed in nine areas and is in progress in 17 areas. Preliminary survey is in progress in the remaining three areas.
It is not intended that any change should be made in the scheme or in the rate at which it should be carried out.
During the present year, it is hoped to step up work to the rate of 40 areas per annum.