Rory O'Hanlon
Question:98 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the proposed extensions to the gas pipeline in Counties Monaghan and Cavan; the timeframe involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26133/99]
Written Answers - Natural Gas Grid.
The question of extension of the gas distribution grid is a day-to-day one for Bord Gáis Éireann.
Pipeline construction has recently commenced on an extension of the natural gas network to Carrickmacross and Lough Egish, County Monaghan. It is expected that natural gas will be available in these areas in spring 2000.
Detailed studies to further extend the network to Kingscourt and Bailieboro, County Cavan and Castleblayney, County Monaghan are currently under way. It is anticipated that these extensions will take place in 2000-2001, subject to meeting the company's economic investment criteria.
Earlier this year, a market study for Cavan town indicated that the potential load was insufficient to justify the capital investment required.
It is intended to review this study and examine the potential in Monaghan town and Clones in 2000. Extensions to these areas, if economically viable, would be post 2002.