Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the officials for the presentation. How realistic are the targets that have been set? We have experience of unrealistic targets where semi-State companies, primarily, represent a huge obstacle to change. In particular, I cite Bord na Móna in the use of renewables. It is not in its commercial interest to change or adapt in any way to use alternative sources of biomass, for instance, as a derivative for energy. Realistically unless somebody can sweep our semi-State companies objections and lack of co-operation out of the way, I cannot see these targets being met. My experience is - the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources would back this up - while the Department will outline policies and put schemes in place, the semi-State companies will just not play ball. How will that mindset and culture in our semi-State companies, particularly Bord na Móna, change?