asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state (a) the places on the western seaboard at which hydrographic surveys have been undertaken by the Electricity Supply Board; (b) the nature of the interim report (if any) made in respect of each survey, and (c) the nature of the final report (if any) in each case.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity Supply Board Surveys.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that following a survey of the whole of County Donegal, Connemara and County Kerry, eleven rivers have been selected for investigation in detail, namely:— the Clady, Lackagh, Upper Eske, Lower Eske, Owenea, and Leenan rivers in County Donegal; the Owenglin river in Connemara; and the Torc, Flesk, Caragh and Currineragh in County Kerry. The interim reports have indicated that none of these developments would be of sufficient magnitude to help in meeting the present shortage of plant on the Electricity Supply Board system, and that their development at this stage would retard the completion of the major projects essential to cope with the growing demand for energy. Final reports have not yet been prepared. Such reports are prepared only when a decision has been reached in principle to proceed with a particular project or group of projects.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary say if these reports will be made available to the public?
Can the Parliamentary Secretary say if the surveys are being continued despite the interim reports?
I understand so.