Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the decision by the Government that the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Ryan, and the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív, are to get together to resolve the ongoing problems with the natural gas project at Bellanaboy, County Mayo. It is vital and in the national interest that this gas is brought ashore and distributed without further undue delay. It is an important national asset. We need the energy and all concerned should come together to resolve this issue. The Government must have this gas distributed without further delay. It is a good natural asset and it is vital we get it out quickly.

I also call on the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Ryan, to carry out a survey of unused water mills on fast-flowing rivers throughout the country, which can provide energy with low environmental impact. For instance, in Athleague in County Roscommon, on the River Suck, unutilised, untapped energy is flowing through every day and no effort has been made to use the river for green energy production. The Department should be more proactive in this regard. It should get involved in doing something practical and provide support and assistance——