Is the Minister aware that in regard to the drink manufacturing industry — which is akin to food manufacture — Guinness in Dublin had a contract with Bord Gáis Éireann to be supplied with natural gas in February 1983? We are now in May 1984 and they still have not got a connection although they would be very substantial users of the gas in an optimum way; similarly with other companies where arrangements were made, such as Smithwicks of Kilkenny, The Irish Glass Bottle Co., and various others. What is the reason for this exceptional delay and the fact that after several years Bord Gáis Éireann have not delivered gas to any of these people who badly need it?

Question No. 5.

No answer?

I am not claiming any credit for the delays caused in 1983 when the Deputy and his party were in power.

It must seem a long time since the Minister came to power but he was there prior to 1983. He chooses not to reply.

I have ruled that they are separate questions. They are obviously so.

They are all relating to manufacturing industry.

They are, but they are specific, detailed questions about detailed companies and the Minister might not have the information with him.