I thought I might get some cheap information but it is not forthcoming. Did the Minister receive a report on the serious leaks that have occurred and can he tell the House what was the cause? Was it corrosion, old age, bad maintenance or malpractice that gave rise to the leaks that were a serious potential danger to people in Dublin and Cork?

The Cork Gas Company have recognised that there is a high level of leakage in the system. They have commissioned a report from a British gas consultancy and they will be considering the matter of refurbishment of the system generally. There is a multiplicity of reasons, age being one reason, and there is also the question of an on-going replacement policy for mains and service which will be undertaken during the next two years by the Cork Gas Company. If the Deputy wants specific reasons for the various leaks that have occurred he should ask specific questions. I have not detailed information to hand.

The Minister has admitted that there is a high level of leaks in the Cork area. Will he state what immediate action is being taken to remove the potential danger of immediate explosions from the general public in Cork?

In fairness, the Cork Gas Company are taking certain steps. They have been taking steps on an-ongoing basis in their normal day-to-day operations. When the consultancy report is furnished to them a refurbishment will take place.

The Minister has told us the report is not expected for three months. It appears there is a contradiction in what we are hearing.

We are talking about the Dublin Gas Company and the Cork Gas Company. They are different situations.

What is the position with regard to the Cork Gas Company?

On an on going day-to-day basis the Cork Gas Company are taking steps to ensure that leaks are kept to a minimum.

I hope there will be no more.