214 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the implications of the withdrawal of one of the partners in the proposed gas pipeline from Belfast to Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29082/01]

I am aware that there have been media reports suggesting that Questar may be considering withdrawing from the gas sector in Northern Ireland. There has been speculation about such a withdrawal for some time, but it is not confirmed at this moment. I am informed, however, by Bord Gáis that it is fully committed to the Northern Ireland project and that it will not be affected by any change of position by Questar.