asked the Minister for Energy the amount Bord Gáis expect to contribute to the Exchequer for 1986; and if he expects any shortfall in this amount.

The financial target set for BGE in the Government budget provided for payments during 1986 of £62 million. Achievement of this target depends, amongst other factors, on the effect of oil price fluctuations on the take up of gas. While it seems clear that there will be some reduction, it is too early at this stage to say what the final outcome will be.

Is the Minister in a position to give me some idea if the decision of the ESB to turn down large supplies of gas will have a major effect on the contribution of BGE to the Exchequer?

There will not be a major downtake by the ESB, certainly for the next 12 months.