asked the Minister for Energy if, in view of the indications for some time that there are more natural gas reserves in the Celtic Sea, he will now bring forward a plan for an expanded natural gas network linking major towns and cities throughout the State.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Natural Gas Network.
24.
In the event that commercially recoverable reserves of natural gas in the Celtic Sea are proven one of my first priorities would be to examine the economic potential for further expansion of the natural gas grid. Other users for the gas would, of course, also have to be considered.
Does the Minister agree that it was wrong for a Government spokesman to hype up the announcement over the weekend because it could have been the cause of investors losing a fortune on the Stock Exchange, as happened on another occasion? Thankfully, on this occasion the people knew more than the Government spokesman, who was talking about a £10 billion gas find in the Celtic Sea. Does the Minister condemn that approach?
The procedures regarding any announcement made in relation to the offshore programme or the discovery of hydrocarbons is well laid down and has been adhered to by the Department and Ministers over the years. It is my intention to do likewise and the Deputy can be assured of my bona fides in that regard.
Tell Chris Glennon what they are.