John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 111: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the orders he has given for the feasibility study on the Corrib gas line to be expanded to include Sligo; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Sligo can be a central focus for the provision of gas to Donegal, Roscommon, Leitrim and Fermanagh; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24306/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department has recently tendered for a Gas to the Northwest Study, in the context of the Government's objective for regional policy in the National Development Plan and having regard to the National Spatial Strategy. The scope of this study is firstly, to determine the feasibility of bringing gas from the Mayo-Galway pipeline to Donegal Town via Sligo, considering three specified alternative routes; secondly, to examine and assess options for and issues surrounding the development of gas-fired power generation along the pipeline routes; and finally, to present options for the provision of gas pipeline infrastructure and gas-fired power generation, with recommendations as to how best the options may be pursued.

The alternative pipeline routes under consideration to bring gas from the Mayo-Galway pipeline to Donegal Town are: via Ballina and Sligo, via Castlebar, Claremorris, Knock and Sligo, or via Claremorris, Ballyhaunis, Ballaghaderreen and Sligo. A range of gas-fired generation plant sizes and types will be considered for each location. These locations are in or close to Bellacorick, Ballina, Sligo Town, Donegal, Castlebar, Claremorris, and Ballaghaderreen.

In considering the benefits of the recommended options, the study will take into account the role of enhanced energy infrastructure in facilitating regional development and the National Spatial Strategy objectives. The study is expected to take about 6 months to complete and I expect that the contract will be awarded in July. The provision of gas to Fermanagh is a matter for the Northern Ireland Authorities in the first instance.