asked the Minister for Energy the projected level of spending in (a) 1988 (b) 1989 and (c) 1990 on the Dublin Gas network; and when he expects that this company will show a net profit.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Gas Company.
52.
The projected level of spending on the Dublin Gas network is as follows:
|
Year |
£ million |
|
1988 |
20.5 |
|
1989 |
23.8 |
|
1990 |
23.9 |
It is always difficult to predict with any accuracy the timing and level of profits which might be achieved by any organisation. In the case of Dublin Gas, profits are dependent on a number of factors. These include volume of gas sold, the costs incurred in delivering the product to the customer and the price obtained for the gas, a factor which depends to a large extent on oil prices.
Present indications for gas sales are good. On the costs front, Dublin Gas is now a more efficient and cost effective operation than in the past. If the present trends continue I am confident that Dublin Gas will return to profit in the next few years.
Can the Minister tell us when he envisages, under the Act we passed some time ago, Dublin Gas presenting separate accounts as a subsidiary of BGE?
I intend that they will do so next year.
On what date?
In their next financial report.
When will that be?
I have not got the exact date but I will get it for the Deputy.