asked the Minister for Supplies whether, in the examination of the financial position of the Electricity Supply Board which preceded the imposition of the recent increased charges, the question was considered of postponing the proposed increases until after the emergency period, and of then sanctioning the imposition of such charges as would reasonably recoup the board for any losses sustained during the emergency; if not, whether he will, at this stage, consider the adoption of some such arrangement, having regard to the fact that many consumers are already suffering severe hardship from the increased cost of living in so many directions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Charges for Electricity.
I considered very fully the question of postponing the recent increases in electricity charges before finally deciding the matter. I may say that the increase allowed is insufficient to recover in full the increased costs falling on the Electricity Supply Board. The increase in electricity charges permitted to date, which represents 20 per cent. on pre-war charges, cannot be regarded as unreasonable having regard to prevailing circumstances and the increases which have taken place in the cost of other commodities and services.
I decided that I would not be justified in refusing the recent application of the Electricity Supply Board for an increase in charges in view of the consequences of such refusal on the general position of the board. The position is, however, under continuous review and the Deputy may be assured that recourse will be had to every means to keep electricity charges as low as possible during the emergency.