Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

I would like to raise two other issues. In recent times, there has been an increase in the use of pipe bombs and other explosives in Dublin. It is proposed to replace the Explosives Act 1875 with a modern statutory legislative framework for the control, manufacture, storage, importation and supply of explosives. The text of the Bill has been drafted and agreed. In view of the urgency of the situation, can the Tánaiste indicate whether it is intended to proceed with this legislation expeditiously? The Government has placed great emphasis on the development of alternative energy and the enhancement of the national grid. What is the current status of the proposed Bill that will provide for transfer of ownership of electricity transmission assets from the ESB to EirGrid? I have raised two simple issues. I am sure the Tánaiste will be anxious to facilitate the House on such matters of extreme urgency.

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