Willie Penrose
Ceist:24 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will sanction the extension of the natural gas network to serve Mullingar, Athlone and Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21768/99]
Written Answers. - Gas Grid.
Paul McGrath
Ceist:44 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the plans, if any, she has to extend the natural gas pipeline to facilitate the midlands, particularly Mullingar and Athlone in County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20079/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 44 together.
The question of extension of the gas grid by Bord Gáis Éireann is a matter for the company in the first instance. I have received in the past few days a formal request from it for approval under section 8 of the Gas Acts, 1976-98 to extend the grid from Dublin to Galway and onwards to Limerick. The request, which needs to be supported with appropriate information and documentation, will be considered in the context of the emerging regulatory environment for the liberalised gas market.