Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 13 Dec 2000

Vol. 528 No. 2

Written Answers. - Electricity Generation.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

94 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will elaborate on his announcement in Castlebar, County Mayo - on 3 December 2000 - to the effect that a gas fired electricity generating station will be located in County Mayo; the location and size of the station referred to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29849/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

As the western region's representative in Government I am pursuing with my colleagues, the Minister for Public Enterprise, Deputy O'Rourke, and the Minister of State, Deputy Jacob, the question of progressing gas supply options for the west and advancing economic development in that area.

I am anxious to ensure that, as happened in Cork with the Kinsale gas field, the availability of gas in the western region is used to promote the location of industry in that part of Ireland. My priority is to see the extension of the gas network and a new supply off the west coast used to accelerate economic development in the Border, midland and western region. The Government is committed to ensuring that the necessary pipeline infrastructure is in place to bring gas to customers, both domestic and commercial in the west. The availability of such a supply will facilitate opportunities for the generation of electricity in the region. I am actively pursuing options in this regard with my colleague, the Minister for Public Enterprise, with a view to ensuring that the availability of Corrib gas assists in bringing high quality electricity generation to the western region.