asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the Electricity Supply Board meter rent fixed charges operated in respect of cottage lighting in County Dublin represent an extremely heavy imposition upon the tenants; and, if so, if he will state whether this matter has been under consideration and what steps are being taken to alleviate the hardship caused to the people concerned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity Supply Board Meter Charges.
I have no function in the matter of the charges made by the Electricity Supply Board for electricity. The Deputy should address to the board any representations he wishes to make.
Is the Minister aware that repeated representations have been made to the board with regard to this matter? In view of the fact that everybody is agreed that these charges do represent a grave hardship on the tenants concerned, particularly those living in rural and suburban areas, would the Minister make representations to the board and ask them to reconsider the whole position, particularly with regard to areas near the city in the south of the county? I understand some of the areas in the north of the county have been considered.
I understand that there have been no increases in the fixed charges since 1945. The problem is due not so much to any alteration in price charges but rather to the higher valuation of the cottages now being built.
Does it not suggest itself to the Minister that some new system of fixed charges could be brought into being?
That would be a very complicated matter, but it is one which the county council might take up.