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Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Reachtaíocht a Gealladh - Questions on Promised Legislation

Emergency energy price controls

Summary

Deputy Boyd Barrett urges emergency price controls on energy and fuel under consumer law, while the Taoiseach says that would have wider negative consequences and prefers other mechanisms such as the rebate scheme.

The protests outside by hauliers are just the latest manifestation of the huge problems large numbers of working people, people on lower incomes, hauliers, taxi drivers and many others are having with the cost of living and the cost of energy and fuel. The Taoiseach asked that we give some suggestions. We have given suggestions. Under section 61 of the Consumer Protection Act 2007, the Government can issue an emergency order and control the price of energy and fuel. It should do that. That is what is required to deal with these price hikes that are devastating people's ability to go to work or heat their homes as we enter into the coldest period of the year. Will the Government introduce caps and controls to reduce the price of energy and fuel?

Comment on this

Again, that is far easier said than done and may have wider implications that could also be negative, in terms of a sustained approach to deal with an energy crisis. There are other mechanisms the Government can avail of that we have availed of, such as the rebate scheme.

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