asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when it is proposed to extend rural electrification to Belmullet, Bangor Erris and other villages in the Barony of Erris, County Mayo.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Electrification.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that an investigation of the question of supply of electricity to Belmullet and Bangor Erris has been made in conjunction with the general investigation of providing supply to the western seaboard regions under the rural electrification scheme. I am further informed that in so far as these areas are concerned, the investigation has shown that the revenue return is very low, which would prejudice the prospects of early development of this region. If the development of Bangor Erris bog by Bord na Móna proves practicable, the position of the area would, however, become much more favourable as regards probability of early supply.
Is the Minister aware that Deputy Ruttledge, who tabled this question, is not in the House? He never is when replies are being given.
That has nothing whatever to do with question No. 9.
That is rather hitting below the belt, is it not?
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when it is proposed to extend rural electrification to the Achill area, County Mayo.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that the Achill area has been selected for development under the rural electrification scheme and that it is hoped to commence work there early next year.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when it is proposed to extend rural electrification to Laherdane and adjoining areas in the Crossmolina district in County Mayo.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the grave necessity for the extension of rural electrification to Laherdane, Ballina; and, if so, if he will state when this scheme will be started.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 10 and 11 together.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that a canvass by a local committee of the Laherdane area was carried out at the end of the year 1948. It was clear from the results that the chances of this area being selected for early development were somewhat remote. The board states that this was probably due to the fact that the boundary of the area as canvassed is three miles from the nearest point of existing supply. I am further informed that, in January, 1949, the person responsible for the organisation of the local canvass was advised accordingly, and it was suggested to him that the boundary of the area might be altered so as to bring it nearer the existing point of supply. I am informed that no reply has been received to this communication and that no further local representations have been made. In the circumstances, the board states that it has decided to defer, for the time being, a canvass of the area by its officers.