asked the Minister for Energy the reasons an energy subsidy under EC regulation 1820/80 has not been granted to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if he is aware of this person's circumstances; if he will now direct his Department to make this subsidy available to this person; and if he will make a statement on the entire situation.
Written Answers. - Western Electrification Scheme.
630.
The objectives of the western package electrification scheme were included in a programme approved by the EC Commission in March 1981 and now governed by EC regulation 1820/80.
While the programme approved by the Commission allows for connection of farm dwellings to supply, it is clearly stated that assistance for this purpose applies only to farms which do not have an existing electricity supply. Strict adherence to the programme in this regard must be enforced in accordance with the recommendations of the EC Court of Auditors.
The person referred to by the Deputy applied for the extension of electricity supply to a new dwelling. However, he already had supply to his farm, as indicated in his application, and, consequently, he could not be offered grant assistance under the scheme.