Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 Feb 1994

Vol. 439 No. 3

Written Answers. - ESB Expenditure Plan.

Edward Nealon

Question:

118 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he will commission an independent review of the ESB expenditure plan in view of the company's extensive capital programme over the next number of years; if the proposed 220kw power line from Flagford, County Roscommon to Drumsallagh, County Donegal will be considered in such a study; the person or agency who has been appointed to carry out the independent review; and the general form this review will take.

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Cowen)

Yesterday I announced that a cost and competitiveness review of ESB is to be conducted, to identify how ESB operations compare with best international practice. This will be a tripartite review which will be overseen by officials from my Department, ESB management and trade unions. The purpose of the review is to provide objective information to inform the Government in its consideration of an increase in electricity prices, to provide a solid foundation for the future regulation of the electricity industry, and to help ESB prepare itself for the liberalisation of the electricity market in the EU.

The review will examine all aspects of ESB's costs, including the appropriateness of its proposed capital expenditure programme. The consultants who will review ESB' capital expenditure programme have not yet been appointed.