On the question of bringing natural gas to Dublin, did the Minister approve of the full-page advertisement inserted by the company in the national newspapers two or three days ago to announce this event? Does he approve of this sort of expense being incurred by the company who are not in the strongest financial position or would he agree that such expense was totally unnecessary? Had the Minister anything to do with the placing of the advertisement?

The Deputy can be assured that I had nothing to do with the placing of the advertisement in question.

Somebody in the party had something to do with it.

I agree fully that such advertising is part of the company's marketing strategy to encourage people to become interested and to make the changeover. I am sure the Deputy will agree that what we want is the expansion of the premium market so that the greatest advantage possible can be gained from bringing natural gas to Dublin. I do not disagree in any way with such advertising.

May we expect to see a series of sales advertisements on similar lines from the board until such time as the gas is available?

The marketing policy of the board is a matter for them. They know what their objectives are in maximising publicity as to the benefits of gas. It is in their interest to expand the number of customers in this area and if part of that strategy involves an advertising campaign, I agree fully. I am interested in seeing the board attain their objectives and to this extent a good strong marketing area is vital. If we had such marketing in many other areas, we might be a lot better off.

Especially two days before a by-election.