asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of the great need for the extension of rural electrification in the areas of Cloughscoilte, Boleybeg and Cappagh in Barna, County Galway; and how soon the people in these areas can expect supply.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Rural Electrification.
6.
I am informed by the ESB that the townlands in question are in the Board's Spiddal Rural Area which was recanvassed under the Rural Electrification Post Development Scheme early in 1963 when the terms quoted were not accepted. Under normal circumstances, therefore, a further opportunity to take supply would not be given until the general post-development scheme had been completed.
However, the ESB have been examining the general supply position in the area and have decided to erect a new high tension line there. It will be possible to connect houses from this line when the work is in progress. It is not known when work on the high tension line will commence, but if the householders concerned contact the Board's Galway District Office in about six months time more definite news should be available.
Will the Ministry try to expedite connection in this area? This is a dairying area and it is very important that the supply should be connected as early as possible. Will the Minister do as much as he possibly can to expedite it? I know that it is really pushing an open door but will he push the door open wider, if I may put it that way?
As I have just explained in reply, what the Deputy is looking for is exactly what is happening. Not alone are we proposing to extend the supply but, by introducing the new high tension line, we are improving supply to people already obtaining electricity.
I am grateful to the Parliamentary Secretary.