Public-sector energy conservation
Leonard challenged a report’s finding that the public sector was least active in conservation and asked what the Minister would do. Collins disputed that the NESC endorsed the finding, cited public-sector activity, and agreed more care was needed; Leonard questioned the value of commissioning such reports.
asked the Minister for Energy if he noted in the study "Irish Energy Policy" by F.T. Convery, S. Scott and C. McCarthy, prepared for the National Economic and Social Council, the finding (page 74) that "the public sector has been the least active participant in conservation measures"; and if so, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Comment on this
I have noted the statement to which the Deputy refers. It would appear that there is little to support the allegation that conservation effort in the public sector is lacking. The NESC, in their own comments on the report, did not indicate that they were in agreement with the consultants on this issue, while at the same time expressing the view that the public sector must lead in matters of this kind.
Within the limits of available resources for energy conservation, the public sector has been singled out as an area for particular concentration in recent years. The main efforts are directed at central Government Departments, schools, local authority and health board offices and institutions. The IIRS since 1980, have included a public buildings advisory service in their work programme and have thereby helped to achieve considerable savings.
I am not complacent about these results and recognise that all concerned can take many actions to save energy in the public as well as the private sector.
Comment on this
Despite what the Minister has said about the report, it clearly stated that the public sector was the least active participant in conservation measures. The public sector should be showing an example rather than the reverse. What does the Minister propose to do? Has this situation arisen because the Department of the Public Service are involved? Is that why the Department of Energy did not accept the accuracy of the report?
Comment on this
The report was prepared for the NESC by independent consultants and the NESC in their comments on the report did not indicate they were in agreement with the consultants. There are two separate questions in this. There has been activity in the public service aimed at energy conservation. I agree there is need for care in the public as well as the private sector.
Comment on this
From the point of view of the information we are getting in reply to questions on reports, does it not seem that the Minister should consider seriously whether he should continue to have these reports commissioned?
