100 Mr. Belton asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if County Longford will be included in the national gas grid; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31394/01]

Under the Gas Acts, 1976 to 2000, Bord Gáis Éireann has statutory responsibility to develop and maintain an efficient and cost effective gas transmission and distribution system. Extensions to the transmission system require my consent whereas extensions of the distribution network fall exclusively within the day-to-day responsibilities of the board.

The pipeline to the west, planned for construction in 2002, passes immediately south of County Longford.

I have been informed by Bord Gáis that energy markets, both current and projected, are regularly reviewed and updated along all pipeline corridors. The energy market in Longford town and county has been established and is being updated on a continuous basis.

A number of pipeline route options for a natural gas supply to Longford town are currently being examined and, following on from this process, an economic appraisal will be carried out. If the connection fulfils the relevant economic criteria, as set out by the board, then BGE will actively consider making a supply available to the county.