asked the Minister for Energy if he has had any recent contact or discussion with his British counterpart to explore current British attitudes to the supply of natural gas to Northern Ireland and to discuss more co-operation in the area of electricity supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Supply of Natural Gas.
42.
I have not had any recent discussions with my British counterpart on the current British attitude to the supply of natural gas to Northern Ireland or on the subject of more co-operation in the area of electricity supply. It is necessary to bear in mind that the Northern Ireland gas industry has substantially been closed down. So far as electricity is concerned, we are ready and willing to co-operate in the matter of the interconnector whenever its reinstatement can be achieved but the House will be aware that there are special difficulties in that regard.