asked the Minister for Energy when natural gas will be made available for private and commercial use in the Kilkenny area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The spur-line to Kilkenny from the Cork — Dublin pipeline has been completed and Bord Gáis Éireann is currently evaluating a programme to distribute natural gas in Kilkenny. Principally, this involves negotiations with the major industrial and institutional customers. A successful conclusion to these discussions is vital to the viability of this project.