5 June 2000

FUTURE OF COOLKEERAGH DISCUSSED WITH SIR REG EMEPY

Sir Reg Empey, MLA, today met a deputation, led by Mayor of Derry, Councillor Pat Ramsey, to discuss the future of Coolkeeragh Power Station and the provision of a gas pipeline to the North West.

Speaking after the meeting the Minister said: "The deputation, which included representatives of the workforce and unions, explained their concerns about the future of Coolkeeragh Power Station where the contract to produce electricity expires in 2004.

"We discussed developments since we last met in January and the potential for a new gas fired power station to replace the existing oil fired station.

"While the pipeline and the power station are primarily matters for the private sector, I would like to see gas extension both to the North West and to the South East.

"I am pleased that there have been several private sector applications to extend the gas industry outside Belfast and look forward to seeing a well developed project emerging which would bring economic, environmental and social benefits to the region.

"I emphasised to the deputation that the key factor was the securing of a contract by Coolkeeragh and one for the private sector to take forward. If this stage can be reached, then the provision of EU support can be considered."

The deputation said that the meeting had been both positive and worthwhile although they realised that there was still considerable work to be done by them to advance the project.

The deputation included Dougie Rooney, AEEU National Officer, Mickey Creswell, Coolkeeragh and Cathal Logue, Acting Chief executive of Derry City Council.