asked the Minister for Energy if he will make a statement on the feasibility of providing a spur of the national gas grid for Wexford town; the investigations which have been carried out; and when it is likely to be provided.
Written Answers. - Natural Gas Grid
186.
I am anxious to see that natural gas is widely available. However, I must stress that extensions of the natural gas grid must take account of the economic viability of each project. The proximity to existing pipelines and the existence of markets sufficient to justify the substantial cost required to extend the transmission system must be major considerations. The prospects for providing a spur to areas such as Wexford are, of course, dependent on these considerations.
I am informed by Bord Gais Éireann that they have had discussions with Wexford Gas Company from time to time to examine the viability of a natural gas supply to Wexford town. I understand, however, that these discussions have not reached a conclusion yet.