Moneypoint transition fund
Deputy Harty asked when a just transition fund for west Clare and Moneypoint would be announced. The Taoiseach said coal generation was planned to continue until 2025 and any transition fund would have to be decided before then.
I call Deputy Harty, who will be followed by Deputy Durkan. Deputies Casey, Donnelly and Thomas Byrne will be up first tomorrow if they so wish.
Comment on this
I ask Members to watch the clock. They should not look at me but rather at all their colleagues.
Comment on this
My question is on a just transition fund for west Clare, for the imminent ceasing of coal-burning in Moneypoint power station. In budget 2020, there was a commitment to set up a just transition mitigation fund for the midlands as turf ceased to be burned for electricity generation. The Minister committed to set up a fund for Moneypoint. When does he expect to make that announcement? How much money will be in that fund? How will that money be spent to support the local community in west Clare when Moneypoint ceases to function?