asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that a person (name supplied) has been quoted a total fixed charge per annum of £37 13s for the supply of electricity; and if he will recommend a substantial reduction in this high cost.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity Charge.
5.
Individual charges are calculated by the ESB in accordance with the principles which I mentioned in my reply to a question asked by Deputy P. Hogan on 13th May, 1965. The householder referred to by the Deputy was quoted terms which include a high special service charge because of the very isolated position of the premises and the consequent high cost of extending supply. As regards special service charges generally, I would refer the Deputy to column 21 of the Dáil Debates of 20th October, 1965, in which I gave a very full reply to a question on this subject; to column 176 of the Dáil Debates of 28th September, 1966, and column 84 of the Dáil Debates of 6th December, 1966, in which I also dealt with this matter.
Would the Minister consider allowing a grant to help this man to instal electricity? Would he be prepared to make a grant?
I have already dealt with that matter at great length. I pointed out to the House that under the present system 96 per cent of rural dwellers can be connected with a supply of electricity throughout the country on either ordinary service charges, or service charges only slightly increased. The position in regard to the remainder can be considered by the Government when the present campaign terminates between 1970 and 1971.
This question does not relate to the 96 per cent but to the four per cent, and this man is unfortunately one of them. I want to ask the Minister is he prepared to make a grant?
Under the present system, the service charge must be applied as indicated. If the Deputy reads the replies I have given previously, he will see the whole picture and the extra costs involved.
I am asking the question: is the Minister prepared to make a grant? Yes or no?
It would require a change in legislation.
It is another broken promise.
(Interruptions.)