asked the Minister for Energy if any definite decision has been made on the route for the Dublin to Belfast gas pipeline.

The target date for completion of the natural gas pipeline from Dublin to the Border is October 1985.

Bord Gáis Éireann have undertaken a detailed analysis of the optimum route for the pipeline to the Border, and this is at present under discussion between them and other relevant authorities.

Does the route that has been determined include connections or spurs to Drogheda and Dundalk in particular?

That would not seem to arise on this question which is about the time.

It is about the route, Sir.

As I am sure the Deputy is aware, the first phase of the development plan is in relation to the Dublin ring mains and the second, more extensive development is from Dublin to the Border. That has been the subject of detailed analysis by Bord Gáis Éireann. The straight line route from Abbottstown to Dundalk and then on to the Border crossing has been suggested as the optimum route for the pipe. No decisions have been taken in relation to spurs at this time.

Would that straight line route from Abbottstown to the Border not pass very close to both Drogheda and Dundalk?

Yes, very close.

Will the Minister give the House an assurance, therefore, that those two towns will have connections at a very early date as soon as the main pipe is laid by October 1985?

I can say to the Deputy that it is too early at this stage to give any details of the spur-lines or the timings of them. Obviously the object is to have maximum utility and, given the proximity of these towns, I can assure the Deputy that arrangements will be made to have gas supplies for those towns as quickly as possible.