asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if work on the Cork-Dublin natural gas pipeline will commence on schedule; if it will be completed by the end of 1982; if the public inquiry report on the wayleaves acquisition will be made public; and if and when he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cork-Dublin Gas Pipeline.
64.
Work on the Cork-Dublin natural gas pipeline commenced on 31 March 1982, one day ahead of schedule. Fencing and clearance of the pipeline route have already progressed about 45 kilometres down the route to just north of Carlow. The welding of pipe over-ground has progressed about 15 kilometres. The project is expected to be completed by 30 November next and fully commissioned by 31 December.
I am not obliged under the Gas Act, 1976 to publish the report made to me by the person I appointed to conduct oral hearings into applications by BGE for compulsory acquisition orders. Evidence at the hearings was given under oath and in public.
The purpose of the hearings was to clarify for me the issues of concern to the parties involved and I took those into consideration before deciding to make compulsory acquisition orders. I do not feel that it is necessary, or that any useful purpose would be served, by publishing the report made to me.