Energy policy consultation
Deputy Brendan Smith sought stronger community engagement on energy policy and asked about an independent report following a passed motion. The Taoiseach said the Government had noted the motion, was in contact with the Minister, and would have him respond.
There is a commitment in the programme for Government for much better engagement with citizens and communities about the energy policy decisions that affect them and a commitment to effective community consultation on energy infrastructure developments. As the Taoiseach is aware, last week Dáil Éireann passed a Private Members' motion, moved by the Fianna Fáil Party, and one of its particular elements called on the Government to commission immediately an independent report incorporating international industry expertise. Could the Taoiseach advise the House if the Minister concerned or the Government or both have yet initiated that study and, if not, when is it expected to commence that process?
Comment on this
I note the motion that was passed last week. It calls for a report to be provided and we have been in touch with the Minister about that. He was in the House for the taking of that motion.
There have been other reports on this provision, as Deputy Smith is aware. The provision is for an all-energy island, and this is clearly a major issue post-Brexit in all these respects for the economies of both the North and the Republic. I will have the Minister, Deputy Naughten, respond to Deputy Smith in respect of the motion that was passed and the matter referred to of the report.