Seamus Brennan
Ceist:288 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the estimated loss to the ESB per annum due to theft of electricity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22942/96]
Written Answers. - Theft of Electricity.
The ESB estimates that losses from theft of electricity are of the order of £2 million per annum. The company treats the matter seriously. Considerable resources are committed to the detection of theft and a new task force has recently been set up to enhance detection capability. The detection of theft is a serious matter from two viewpoints. First, the danger that arises as a result of interference with the electrical system, which exposes the perpetrators and innocent bystanders to the risk of serious injury or death. Second, the loss of significant revenue arising from unlawful activity which imposes costs on the company and its customers. Trained detection squads are operating throughout the country. Cases are being continuously detected which result in criminal prosecutions.
The theft of electricity is a criminal offence and is punishable by fines of up to £50,000 and-or imprisonment of up to three years.