Caít Keane (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We only have two minutes each on this side of the House so I will try to speak quickly. Reference was made to zero carbon being the aim. On the social and economic side, the main question has been answered as to how to achieve the target. A response has also been made on the issue of volatility. We are exposed in this country as we import 90% of our fuel at a cost of €6 billion.

Reference was made in the report to offsetting for agriculture. I would welcome some elaboration on the domestic strategies for offsetting. Forestry was mentioned. At the previous meeting we referred to accounting methodologies and the fact that this country is different in terms of agriculture.

I agree that in order to be competitive we must innovate. It was also said that private sector companies with capital are ready to invest. What are the top targets for which we should aim? Buildings use 40% of energy and that is a sector to target. The retrofitting of social housing, public buildings and schools has been recommended. Private capital is available for that. There is a 50:50 payback. Does private capital offer 20% payback or no payback? How does one target that? If 40% of energy is used in buildings, we must know how to address the issue in order to make a recommendation on improving the situation.

We are engaging with the private sector. I did not think there was so much of a divergence between the witness and IBEC. Perhaps I am wrong. I will have to read the report again. How will we engage other than how it is done in the current manner? Does Mr. O’Flynn have any other ideas on the physicality of the engagement? What else must we do? Is wind the top priority for us to target?

I had a question on jobs. Deputy Humphreys's question was answered. Is there an opportunity for further manufacturing, particularly in the wind energy sector, or do we import all of our hardware? In terms of parts, should the engineering sector focus on small parts engineering or large parts manufacturing?

The single-grid operator is a positive element in this country. We always say the single monopolies are a negative. Could Mr. O’Flynn elaborate on the matter and whether we should preserve the single-grid operator?

I will probably have to hold my question on the sun changing until the climatologist comes in again. Last night, a meteorological change was announced. We heard that the sun is now doing what it should not be doing and that we are due to have freezing climate change. Perhaps we will come back next week and turn the tables on what has been said.