Dublin city centre task force
Deputy Gannon asked whether funding had been identified for the Taoiseach's task force for Dublin city centre. The Taoiseach replied that more Government Deputies had spoken than usual, then said energy prices and the regulatory framework would be reviewed.
It is nice to see Government Members of all descriptions having their voices heard and their mandate upheld today. I was led to believe that did not happen.
My question to the Taoiseach concerns the funding for his Department's task force for Dublin city centre. It is eight months since it was announced and we are several months into the Government's term. Has the Department identified a funding stream for the task force?
Comment on this
If people want, we can provide more. We can provide four if that could be facilitated. I appreciate Deputy Gannon's generosity in wanting to share time with Government Deputies. That is kind of in line with Government thinking.
On Deputy O'Flynn's question, we need to review the regulatory framework governing energy prices, particularly in terms of the user base. It will not be easy but the Government is committed to establishing a group to review the legislative framework. Energy prices are high in Ireland relative to those across Europe. There has been an increase in wholesale prices in recent times. Inflation has come down generally, and has come down dramatically from where it was two years ago, and, so, we will not be in a position to sustain the once-off payments this year. We will try to deal with issues through core budgeting by way of pension increases and so on.
On Deputy Gannon's question, I will be having further meetings in respect of funding aspects of the Dublin city task force.