asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will take steps to ensure that the ESB carry out a survey in the parishes of Tuosist and Lauragh, County Kerry, to facilitate people not already connected with the ESB, and that the fixed charges and other charges assessed by the Board are reasonable so that as many people as possible in the area can avail of the supply.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry Electricity Supply.
10.
As I indicated in reply to a question on 15th May, 1968, the Government, in their review of the rural electrification scheme, were concerned to arrange that, within practical limits, electricity is available at a reasonable charge to all those desiring to take it. To this end, as I then indicated, substantial reductions are being made in the high special service charges hitherto payable by some of the ESB's consumers.
I stated in reply to a question on 20th February, 1968, that the ESB planned to start the recanvass of their Tuosist rural area, in which the parishes of Tuosist and Lauragh are situated, in October next. However, the Board have now informed me that, because of the improved terms being offered, there has been an increase in the number of acceptances in areas at present being recanvassed and consequently it will not be possible to start the recanvass of the Tuosist area before early next year. Applicants who accept the terms quoted and have their houses wired would then be given supply during the following autumn.