asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the action of the Electricity Supply Board in refusing to consent to the Skibbereen electricity undertaking to renew their storage battery, or delaying sanction for a long period, has resulted in the town being without light nightly after 1 a.m. since January last; whether he is further aware of the serious nature of the position in the event of operations at the County Hospital and the inconvenience caused to consumers generally; and of the loss of eight hours' revenue per day sustained by the undertaking, in addition to loss incurred by running machinery on a light load during the summer months—such losses preventing any possible reduction in the price of electricity; and whether, in view of these facts, he will urge the Board to remedy this failing without delay.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. Oral Answers. - SKIBBEREEN ELECTRICITY SUPPLY.
Questions of this kind relating to the ordinary business of the Electricity Supply Board should be sent directly to the Board. I cannot undertake to intervene in such matters.
Will the Minister not agree to use his influence with the Board, in view of the fact that the Board evidently has no respect for the opinions of the local Urban Council— the Minister surely has influence with them?
Much less than a local authority.
That sounds bad.
Has the Minister any idea how long it will be before Shannon current will be available in this district?
I do not see anything about that in this question.
It is quite obvious why the Shannon Board will not grant the application.
It is not obvious to me—I have nothing to do with the Shannon Board.
Have we no authority over the Board in this House?
Except what the Act lays down.