Mary Flaherty
Question:7 Miss Flaherty asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline his reaction to the request by the ESB for price increases, and if he will make a statement on the reasons for this application.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity Price Increases.
Proinsias De Rossa
Question:59 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Energy if he has received any requests from the ESB for sanction for an increase in electricity prices; if he will outline his response to any such request, and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 59 together.
I have received proposals from the ESB within the last week in relation to an increase in electricity prices. These proposals are being examined by my Department and it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the application until that examination is complete.
Is the main reason the ESB applied for a price increase to provide additional capacity?
I cannot answer any questions on the issue of price as the proposals have only been submitted recently and have not yet been fully examined by me or my officials. I do not want to add to any speculation until I have had an opportunity to seriously consider the request.
I will hear a reply to Question No. 8 if it is responded to now.