asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he has had discussions with the E.S.B. in relation to the advancement of the board's programme with a view to permitting work on the erection of a generating station at Oweninny to start in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - North Mayo Generating Station.
I have discussed with the E.S.B. the possibility of bringing this station into operation by 1960-61 but have been advised that, in view of the decline in the rate of growth in demand for electricity and the fact that generating capacity for which irrevocable commitments have already been entered into is expected to be more than adequate to meet requirements, it is unlikely that this station will be required by them. I have, however, asked the board to give priority to this station in the planning of future capacity.
The Deputy will appreciate that the commissioning of the station before it was required would involve a large and unnecessary capital expenditure and annual losses during each year in which the output of the station would not be required.