Extended gas licences mean consumer benefits: Neeson

12.00.00am GMT Tue 15th Feb 2005

ALLIANCE Economy Spokesperson Sean Neeson MLA (East Antrim) has welcomed the decision by OFREG to extend the natural gas licences to new areas of Northern Ireland.

Mr Neeson said: "During devolution, I led the campaign to have natural gas extended to the north-west of Northern Ireland and elsewhere, as I believed that energy consumers should have the right of choice.

"The new Coolkeeragh power station now benefits from natural gas and it is important that domestic consumers are given the same opportunity. The next significant step is to see the development of a new pipeline from the south, which will benefit consumers in Counties Down and Armagh in particular."