asked the Minister for Energy the progress which has been made towards the piping of natural gas to Kilkenny city; if a definite route has been decided on; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
484.
Written Answers. - Natural Gas Supply.
483.
asked the Minister for Energy the progress which has been made towards the piping of natural gas to Waterford city; if a final decision has been made in relation to the proposed route; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 483 and 484 together.
Bord Gáis Éireann is currently evaluating a project proposal in relation to the supply of natural gas to Kilkenny. I expect the board to make recommendations to me shortly on whether the project is viable. A decision will be taken on the project as soon as I have considered the board's recommendations.
A feasibility study on the distribution of natural gas in Waterford, prepared on behalf of the gas company, was recently received by me. I have asked Bord Gáis Éireann to examine this project as a matter of priority. I understand from Bord Gáis Éireann that they hope to be in a position to report back to me on whether the project is viable in about six to eight weeks. As soon as I have considered this report a decision on the project will be taken.
Potential routes for piping natural gas to Kilkenny and Waterford have been identified by Bord Gáis Éireann. However, I consider that it would be inappropriate to publish details of the likely pipeline routes before I am satisfied that distribution projects in these centres are viable.