asked the Minister for Energy if he will give a detailed breakdown of the number of additional hydro plants to be constructed in the State; the cost involved; the number of jobs to be created; and the corresponding time-scale.
Written Answers. - Hydroelectric Programme.
35.
I assume the Deputy is referring to my recent statement concerning Ireland's submission for EC funding under Council Regulation (EEC) No. 3301/86 for a programme of developments in the energy area. Included in this programme is the development by the ESB of small-scale hydroelectric generating facilities at ten proposed locations. The sites in question are on Loughs Duff, Fadda, Coomaglaslaw, Garagarry, Tooreenbeg, Coomnacronia and the Glanmore River, all in County Kerry; Barley Lake in County Cork; the Bonet River in County Leitrim and the Devlin River in County Donegal. The total cost of this hydro programme, as estimated by the ESB is £6.9 million, of which Community funding is expected to provide about £3.8 million.
It is difficult at this stage to be precise as to the employment potential of the programme but I am informed that the construction work required may involve up to 20 jobs per site. The implementation of this programme will span the five year period over which Community assistance may be made available under the terms of the regulation.