asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the local and official canvass of the Killientiarna (South Kerry) district showed a very high percentage of acceptances in connection with the rural electrification scheme; and, if so, if he will state the prospects of the scheme being put into operation in the near future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - South Kerry Electricity Supply.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that the Killientiarna area has been selected for development under the rural electrification scheme. The board expect that the erection of the distribution networks in the area will commence in the spring of next year.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state what steps are being taken to ensure that the rural electrification scheme for the Kilgarvan-Kenmare-Sneem-Tousist area, South Kerry, will be put into operation without delay.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that consideration of supply of current to Kilgarvan, Kenmare, Sneem and Tousist areas is dependent on the extension of the board's 10,000 volt transmission line to Kenmare. It is not the intention of the board to make this extension pending the acquisition of the existing electricity undertaking at Kenmare. The board is not in a position to say when negotiations in connection with acquisition may be brought to a conclusion.
Can the Minister say if a big difference exists between the price demanded by the local company and the price offered by the Electricity Supply Board and whether that is the cause of the delay?
I have no information as to what the difference is, but I think the Deputy is right in assuming that it is the cause of the delay.
Is the Minister aware of the real necessity for the provision of a supply of current in this important area? The people require it, as do the thousands of tourists who visit the area each year. Is the place to be kept in darkness for ever?
I am fully aware of it and I hope the Deputy will use his influence with the proprietors of the local undertaking.
I am doing so, and it is the wish of the local people that the Electricity Supply Board should give decent compensation to that local company.