asked the Minister for Energy the proposals, if any, he has for extending the natural gas pipeline into County Wexford, and if Wexford Gas Company have made any application to date.

I have been informed by Bord Gáis Eireann that the technical options and costs associated with bringing natural gas to Wexford town are currently being examined. I understand that Bord Gáis have not received a formal application for gas supply from Wexford Gas Company. However, the board have had preliminary discussions with the company and Wexford Gas are co-operating in the technical studies currently underway.

All the answers today seem to be based on economic grounds. However, in view of the collapse of the industrial base in Wexford, who have the highest unemployment rate in the country, would the Minister consider extending the gas line to County Wexford as a matter of priority? In relation to the gas, it seems strange that Wexford Gas Company have not made an application and is it the Minister's intention to contact the gas company?

It is not my intention to contact Wexford Gas Company directly much as I want a Labour seat in Wexford.