asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether the Electricity Supply Board have yet decided on a general policy for the provision of electric current to residents in areas hitherto classified in the Board's development schemes as uneconomic.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity Schemes: Development of Uneconomic Areas.
45.
The policy, with regard to rural electrification in areas where no supply will have been provided when the present programme is completed some time in 1962, will be the subject of reports by the E.S.B. and these will be examined in my Department.
Is the Minister aware that a decision is eagerly awaited in localities which have hitherto been classified as uneconomic for development? Is he further aware that many residents in some of these areas live quite adjacent to areas already developed, but have been completely unable to secure current, even when they are prepared to pay a reasonable increase on the fixed charges? Does he not consider that these people are being unduly victimised because of their location and that they have a justifiable grievance at present?
I am aware that a great many persons have been joined to the networks since the main rural electrification scheme in these areas came into operation and, if there are any persons who feel they are aggrieved, they should direct their questions to the E.S.B. I should be very glad to ensure that the E.S.B. will give them a reasonable reply.