Natural gas for Tralee and Kerry
Foley said natural gas was important for Kerry’s industrial development and recalled a possible survey. Collins said a supply to Tralee or north Kerry was not possible in the short term, though future gas discoveries could change the prospects.
Would the Minister agree that, for future industrial development in Kerry, it is essential to have a spin-off of natural gas into the county, that otherwise industrialists will not be interested in investing there? Last December I was given a commitment that a survey would be possible within 12 to 18 months. I understand now from the Minister that it may take some years.
Comment on this
It would be wrong of me to say that a supply of natural gas would be brought to Tralee or to north Kerry in the short-term. That is not possible at this time. In reply to a number of questions I have outlined the development of a natural gas grid for the country. We must accept that the gas find itself is limited. In the event of a further gas find the matter could be reviewed in a more favourable light.