National Gas Grid

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 October 2012

Thursday, 11 October 2012

Questions (126)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

126. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications; Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the on-going progress in the development of the Corrib Gas Field; when it is expected that product will become available to the national grid; the extent to which the natural gas pipeline network has been upgraded in anticipation; when he expects gas from the Corrib Gas Field to become available to the Irish market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44024/12]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Pat Rabbitte)

Completion of the Corrib gas field development works by the developer is the principal factor that will determine the date for first gas. Pending such completion, it is not possible to state a date for when gas from the Corrib gas field will become available.

It is estimated that construction of the onshore section of the pipeline, including the construction of a 5km tunnel, which began last year, will take in the region of three years. First gas cannot therefore reasonably be anticipated before 2014.

With regard to the extent to which the natural gas pipeline network has been upgraded in anticipation of Corrib gas coming on stream, I would like to advise the Deputy that Bord Gáis Networks completed a 149km pipeline from Bellanaboy in Mayo to Ballymoneen outside of Galway in October, 2006 to bring gas from the Corrib Field to the national grid.