asked the Minister for Energy the reasons an application for an ESB grant under the EC scheme for electricity installation was refused to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; if he is aware that grants were paid for similar developments in the same area; if he will arrange to have this application reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Mayo Electricity Installation.
460.
The objectives of the western package electrification scheme were included in a programme approved by the EC Commission in March 1981 and now governed by EC Regulation 1820/80.
While the programme approved by the Commission allows for connection of farm dwellings to supply, it is clearly stated that assistance for this purpose applies only to farms which do not have an existing electricity supply. Strict adherence to the programme in this regard must be enforced in accordance with the recommendations of the EC Court of Auditors.
The persons referred to by the Deputy applied for the extension of electricity supply to a new dwelling. However, he already had supply to his farm, as indicated in his application, and, consequently, he could not be offered grant assistance under the scheme.