LNG terminals policy
Deputy Eamon Ryan asked whether the Government supported LNG terminals in Shannon or Cork and whether US or industry discussions had taken place. The Minister said planning decisions were for the authorities, but LNG could have a role in energy security policy.
There are two proposals for liquefied natural gas, LNG, terminals in Shannon and Cork. I was interested in finding out the Government's position with regard to supporting that. Did President Trump raise the issue during the Taoiseach's recent discussions with him in Doonbeg, in Clare? Have there been any meetings involving other representatives of the US Government? Have there been any meetings with other industry people promoting such developments? What is the Government's response? Is there a Government view about whether we should have LNG terminals in Cork or Shannon?
Comment on this
Individual applications are matters for the planning authorities.
On the wider issue of whether LNG could contribute to energy security, there is no doubt that as we move away from and close down peat and coal production, security of supply of gas will become an issue. LNG is one of the options put forward to deal with energy security. Having access to LNG supplies also has support within the EU as an item of strategic potential. This issue is primarily for the planning authorities but the principle of LNG has a role in energy policy.