42 Mr. Connor asked the Minister for Energy his views on the conclusion by Commissioner Bruce Millan in his report Europe 2000 that the interconnection of national electricity grids within Europe will save three per cent of total costs of supply; and if, in view of this, he has any proposals to interconnect our grid with those of other EC countries.

49 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Energy his views on the conclusion by Commissioner Bruce Millan in his report Europe 2000 that the interconnection of national electricity grids within Europe will save 3 per cent of total costs of supply; and if, in view of this, he has any proposals to interconnect our grid with those of other EC countries.

60 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Energy his views on the conclusion by Commissioner Bruce Millan in his report Europe 2000 that the interconnection of national electricity grids within Europe will save three per cent of total costs of supply; and if, in view of this, he has any proposals to interconnect our grid with those of other EC countries.

82 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Energy his views on the conclusion by Commissioner Bruce Millan in his report Europe 2000 that the interconnection of national electricity grids within Europe will save 3 per cent of total costs of supply; and if, in view of this, he has any proposals to interconnect our grid with those of other EC countries.

84 Dr. Lee asked the Minister for Energy his views on the conclusion by Commissioner Bruce Millan in his report Europe 2000 that the interconnection of national electricity grids within Europe will save 3 per cent of total costs of supply; and if, in view of this, he has any proposals to interconnect our grid with those of other EC countries.

85 Mrs. Fennell asked the Minister for Energy his views on the conclusion by Commissioner Bruce Millan in his report Europe 2000 that the interconnection of national electricity grids within Europe will save 3 per cent of total costs of supply; and if, in view of this, he has any proposals to interconnect our grid with those of other EC countries.

103 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Energy his views on the conclusion by Commissioner Bruce Millan in his report Europe 2000 that the interconnection of national electricity grids within Europe will save 3 per cent of total costs of supply; and if, in view of this, he has any proposals to interconnect our grid with those of other EC countries.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 42, 49, 60, 82, 84, 85 and 103 together.

I have noted the relevant statement from Commissioner Millan's report about the benefits which are likely to accrue from interconnection of national electricity grids and also a reference that plans to establish links between Ireland and the UK are most urgent.

It is my understanding that ESB and the National Grid Company in the UK propose to conduct a detailed feasibility study incorporating a seabed survey this year.

When that study is complete we should have a good indication of the potential benefits for Ireland.

As I have stated on previous occasions in the House, it is my intention, subject to technical and economic feasibility and with due regard to timing, that interconnection with the UK be undertaken.