asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the Electricity Supply Board have placed eight lines supported by 45 poles on the dairy farm of Mr. James Lewis, Summerhill, Portlaoighise, and have thereby caused damage both through loss of crops and by depreciating the value of the farm, amounting to £2,000; and, if so, whether he will consider introducing proposals for legislation to enable the board to pay compensation in this and similar cases.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Portlaoighise Electricity Supply Board Lines.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that at present seven lines cross the property of Mr. James Lewis, Summerhill, Portlaoighise; that an eighth line is in course of erection; and that there are 45 poles on the property. Five of the lines were erected over 20 years ago, and an agreed payment by way of compensation was made to Mr. Lewis in full settlement of all claims whatsoever arising out of the damage sustained as a result of the erection and maintenance of these five lines.
In respect of the other lines which have been erected and the line which is in course of erection, a request has been made to Mr. Lewis through his solicitor for details of damage done to his property, and the question of compensation will be fully considered by the Electricity Supply Board when the details have been received and examined.
I am satisfied that claims for compensation in cases such as that of Mr. Lewis can be adequately dealt with by the Electricity Supply Board under existing legislation, and it is not proposed to promote further legislation.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that under existing legislation, the board feel that they can pay compensation only for surface damage and are not entitled to pay any compensation for depreciation in the value of a man's land, such as obviously has taken place in this case? If so, will the Parliamentary Secretary have the matter examined with a view to introducing the necessary supplementary legislation?
I am not aware of the limitations to which the Deputy refers but I shall have the matter examined.