asked the Minister for Energy if he is satisfied at the rate at which the ESB are passing on to domestic consumers the savings arising from the decrease in oil prices; if the Government have any plans to assist the ESB in reducing the price of electricity by easing the rates burden; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Domestic Electricity Costs.
6.
As I indicated in the House last week, I am satisfied at the rate at which the ESB are passing on the benefits from reduced oil prices to domestic consumers.
Although the question of valuation and rating of ESB property is under discussion between the Commissioner of Valuation and the ESB, I understand that the Ministers for Finance and the Environment are satisfied that the levy in lieu of rates conforms with section 7 of the Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) Act, 1982.
Could the Minister indicate whether the levy applied to the ESB in lieu of rates is at the same level as the ESB would be paying in rates on their property?
It appears that there have been discussions between the Commissioner of Valuation, the Minister for Finance, the Minister for the Environment and the ESB board in relation to the levy of rates and the Ministers concerned are satisfied that the amount being paid by levy is equivalent to the amount they would pay on normal valuation.
Can the ESB have their premises valued to find out whether the rate they are paying is equivalent to what they would pay in rates, because they hold a contrary view to that of the Minister in this regard?
As a former Minister for the Environment I am well aware of the attitude of the ESB in this matter. I said in my reply that there is a dispute between the appropriate bodies in this regard. The Minister for Finance and the Minister for the Environment feel that the levy in lieu of rates conforms to the terms of section 7 of the Act. The matter will continue to be discussed and perhaps the Commissioner of Valuation may decide that the ESB premises had to be valued in accordance with normal valuations.
Could the Minister indicate how much the ESB pay in lieu of rates?
In 1986 the levy amounted to a sum of £24 million.
Can the Minister say how much the price of electricity has increased to domestic consumers since 1973?
That is a stupid question, we debated that matter three weeks ago.
The ESB have announced special offers of free units and I should like to know if it would not be better to pass on a reduction in cost rather than giving special offers which in many cases are not relevant to consumers.
That is a matter for the ESB.
Has the Minister any comment to make on that?