Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2004
36 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the main features of the agreement with the UK for a North-South gas pipeline; if a route for the pipeline has been agreed; when construction is likely to commence; when it is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25660/04]
View answerI assume the Deputy is referring to the agreement signed on 24 September 2004 between Ireland and the UK relating to the transmission of natural gas by a second gas pipeline interconnector, IC2, between Ireland and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and through a connection to the Isle Of Man. A motion approving the signing of this agreement was passed on 8 July 2004.
IC2, while designed to facilitate the pumping of gas between both Britain and Ireland on the second subsea interconnector, also allows for future transmission of gas on a new pipeline between Gormanston, County Meath and Belfast. A further agreement will be concluded with the Northern Ireland authorities in relation to this pipeline as the project develops and in context of my objective of creating an all island energy market.
The route for the proposed North-South pipeline has been selected and detailed route planning is ongoing. Main line construction is scheduled to commence in March 2006 and the pipeline is due to be completed by the end of October 2006.
