asked the Minister for Energy the up-to-date position regarding the provision of electricity to Inishturk Island; and if a supply will be available to the islanders by Christmas 1985.

The ESB have informed me that they have almost completed the erection of networks on Inishturk. Tenders for the erection of the building to house the generators are being evaluated, and provision of electricity supply is now dependent on completion of this building.

Because weather conditions in the area during the winter months are not suitable for materials transport and substantial building work, it is not expected that the islanders will have supply by Christmas 1985 and it is unlikely that the work can be completed before summer 1986.

I should like to thank the Minister for his response in regard to having a network provided instead of each individual householder having to provide service. Can the Minister say whether the contracts for the buildings to house the generators have been released and, if so, would it be possible to commence work so that electricity could be supplied for Christmas?

I was glad, after a discussion with the Deputy, to re-examine the question of supply and it has been resolved to our mutual satisfaction. Tenders are being evaluated at present. They have not yet been released, but I assure the Deputy that there will be no delay in regard to this very badly needed supply of electricity.