Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 24 Jan 1995

Vol. 447 No. 11

Written Answers. - Restoration of Interconnector.

Edward Nealon

Ceist:

275 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if the restoration of the interconnector between the ESB power grid and that of the Northern Ireland Authority will have implications for the supply of power to certain areas of Donegal, making unnecessary the proposed 220 KW power line from Flagford, County Roscommon, to Drumsallagh, County Donegal; in view of the fact that the Minister will have responsibility for sanctioning the capital programme, if the Flagford to Drumsallagh line will proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1521/95]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Lowry)

The restoration of the interconnector with Northern Ireland Electricity will have implications for the supply of power to the North West. Studies are currently under way in the ESB to determine what these implications may be and also to see if the proposed Drumsallagh — Flagford project could be deferred.

It is expected that a decision on this issue will be taken in the ESB within the next few months.