asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will consider the introduction of a scheme to allow for the free connection to the ESB supply in the case of an old age pensioner such as a person (name supplied) in County Leitrim who has been invalided for six years and has been asked to pay an installation charge of £785.

The introduction of a scheme of this nature is not contemplated.

The Deputy is, no doubt, aware that under a scheme operated by the Minister for Transport and Power grants of up to £35 for the purchase of bottled gas equipment are available to all householders including old age pensioners who, because of the location of their dwellings, cannot obtain connection to the electricity supply at normal rates. That scheme was introduced as a supplement to the subsidised ESB rural electrification scheme.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider giving some facility in regard to electricity supplies similar to that available to those compelled to use gas as a means of heat and light?

There is no legislation contemplated in that area at the moment.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider doing something to help these people?

Not at the moment.