asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he is aware of the recent gas explosion at a house in Waterford city which nearly resulted in tragedy; if he will establish a public inquiry into this incident in view of the age of the gas mains serving the city; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am aware of an explosion last June at Grace's Lane, Waterford, to which I presume the Deputy refers. I have no statutory authority to establish an inquiry as suggested by the Deputy. However, I understand that an inquiry into the cause of this incident has already been carried out by the Waterford Gas Company and that from the company's investigations it is unlikely that the incident resulted from a gas explosion.