asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that the ESB propose charging a person in County Louth (name supplied) an excessive amount for a connection to his house; and if he considers that £105 plus a fixed charge is a reasonable amount for a connection.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - ESB Charges.
23.
I am informed by the ESB that the person in question is seeking supply in advance of the schedule for the rural area in which he resides under the current four year plan for rural electrification.
Capital is not available to the ESB to make connections in advance of the turn of a rural area and hence, unless such a connection is very cheap to make the applicant must be asked for a contribution. If he is prepared to await the turn of the rural area under the scheme no such capital contribution will be sought.
24.
Mr. J. Lenehan
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the Electricity Supply Board will reduce their proposed charges for the supply of electric current to a large housing site at King's Hill, Wesport, County Mayo.
I assume that the Deputy's question relates to the charges arising out of the capital contribution required by the ESB for extending the electricity supply to the site.
It has always been the practice of the board to request a contribution towards the cost of such an extension of their supply lines if expected revenue appears inadequate to cover the cost of the extension.
I am informed by the board that it is not possible to reduce at present the contribution for supply to the development at King's Hill. It is understood from the board that because of the low density of houses on this site the cost of the network per house is approximately 50 per cent higher than the average cost for housing schemes elsewhere. According as houses on the site are completed and occupied, and the revenue to the board can be more accurately assessed, refunds against the contribution required can be considered. The board have so informed Westport UDC.