Vol. 576 No. 5
306 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of installations which were inspected in each of the past five years following the supply of natural gas; the number of occasions on which the system was audited; and if he will publish the audit reports. [29969/03]
Although this is a day-to-day operational issue for Bord Gáis Éireann, which is overseen by the Commission for Energy Regulation, and I have no function in the matter, the information is available in the Department's records so I have asked my officials to communicate directly with the Deputy.
307 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has completed his investigations into the recent incident involving gas safety, to which he referred in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 401 of 4 November 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29970/03]
Article 17 of the Gas (Amendment) Act 1987 (Section 2) (Distribution) Order 2003 gave the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, the authority to require Bord Gáis Éireann, BGE, to appoint an independent investigator when necessary.
The report of the investigation into the gas explosion on 2 November 2003 was published by the CER on 25 November and is available on its website. The commission has also provided me with a copy of the report. The recommendations include a requirement that BGE report to the CER within three months on its progress in implementing the recommendations.
308 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps which should be taken by a person who knows that gas is being installed by a person who has not completed the relevant FÁS course; and the follow-up which should be anticipated for such a report. [29971/03]
This is an operational matter for Bord Gáis Éireann as part of its safety assurance system. The Commission for Energy Regulation oversees how it discharges that responsibility and I have no function in the matter. However, if the Deputy would inform me of the specifics in this case I will ensure the details are passed on to the relevant authorities.
