asked the Minister for Energy if he is aware of the urgent need to supply natural gas, which has now become a vital necessity, to Clonmel Corporation; the reasons for the inordinate delay in the attainment of an amicable agreement between Bord Gáis, Clonmel Corporation and his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Natural Gas.
552.
A supply of natural gas to Clonmel was approved by Government in August 1984. Since that time Clonmel Gas and Bord Gáis Éireann have been negotiating various aspects of a supply agreement.
I understand that this agreement is to be put to Clonmel Corporation for their approval. Until there is agreement between the negotiating parties in the first instance I am not in a position to give final consideration to the matter. If approved by the corporation I can assure the Deputy that I will waste no time in taking a decision on the matter.