asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce when the E.S.B. is likely to commence work on the extension of rural electrification from Spiddal to Carraroe, County Galway.

I am informed by the E.S.B. that work on the rural electrification scheme in the Carraroe area, County Galway, is expected to begin towards the end of this year.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware of the necessity for extending rural electrification to Valentia Island, Caherdaniel, Cromane and Glenbeigh, County Kerry, and if he will ascertain from the E.S.B. when it is proposed to do so.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the fact that the people of Glenbeigh are anxiously awaiting the installation of rural electrification, he will ascertain from the E.S.B. the cause of the delay in carrying out the work.

I propose with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 36 and 37 together.

I am informed by the E.S.B. that the returns for the Valentia Island area and Glenbeigh area, which includes Cromane, are relatively low and that unless there is a considerable improvement in the percentage of acceptances the early development of these areas under the rural electrification scheme is unlikely.

I am also informed by the board that a preliminary survey of the demand for supply in the Caherdaniel area was carried out recently by a committee of the residents and that an official canvass of the householders will be carried out in due course by the board's staff. The prospects of the area being developed will depend on how the official canvass returns compare with those for other areas awaiting development in the Tralee district.