asked the Minister for Transport and Power the total number of rural householders in Cavan who are still without a supply of electricity; and what action is proposed by the ESB to afford to unconnected householders concerned an opportunity of accepting a supply at the most favourable terms now available under the revised subsidy arrangements.

I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that there are approximately 16,500 households in County Cavan, of which 11,400 or approximately 69 per cent. are connected to the Board's networks. Any householder or group of householders in the county still without supply will be quoted terms on application to the Board's district manager at Dundalk.

Is the Minister aware of the grave hardship these people are undergoing as a result of their not having electricity? When the Taoiseach was over here in Opposition, he made a statement one day—I was present at the time—that in the event of his being returned to office, he would immediately serve all these people.

That was after your Party had abolished the subsidy altogether.

There was a promise all the same, about as good as the rest of the Taoiseach's promises.

If the position in County Cavan is the average of the county, out of every 112 households in County Cavan, 77 can now get connection with the ESB without paying any excess service charge, so it can hardly be called a position of hardship.

That means 45 out of 112 know the Taoiseach broke his word.

I have already explained that matter. The Taoiseach was speaking under conditions that were entirely different.

Does the Minister know what Commodore Vanderbilt said?

What did he say?

He said: "To hell with the public". That is what your man is saying.

You asked for it.

That is our Commodore Vanderbilt over there.