Speed up gas connection to Kells homes, councillor urges

The need to speed up the connection of the Bord Gais gas pipeline in Kells to local housing estates has been highlighted by Cllr Catherine Yore. The Carnaross Fine Gael county councillor has praised Bord Gáis and their contractors for the efficiency and speed of the installation works for the new gas mains infrastructure, adding: "People in Kells are delighted that they are one step closer to having cheaper heating for their homes, with a natural gas supply." However, she said there was growing anxiety as to when the necessary works will be carried out to extend the gas to the housing estates. "Extending the gas mains to service all homes, businesses and industries in urban Kells would allow consumer choice," she said. She said householders could then explore methods of reducing their heating and energy bills. "In these times, households and businesses are anxious to pursue every means of reducing their running costs," she said. Cllr Yore said the Corrib gas field can meet Ireland's natural gas needs, allowing the country to end gas imports and reduce oil imports, providing a huge boost for the country's economy. "We must ensure the maximum number of people can choose gas to maximise the economic benefit, and the network must be extended to allow this. Energy conservation using the most efficient boilers, along with insulation programmes and ensuring maximum access to natural gas, is the best way to maximise this great natural resource. "Irish energy exploitation and energy conservation will provide more Irish jobs," Cllr Yore said. The Fine Gael councillor said the process of making connections needed to be energised, to minimise delay for customers. "We have the customers, the pipes, the network, the necessary workers and eight different companies waiting to compete to supply the gas, once the customers are connected," she added.