John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. Motherway. Before I hand over to members, I wish to ask about the innovative partnerships that are referred to in the written submission, including with SuperValu, Centra, the GAA and so forth.

When I attended the delegates' presentation recently in Buswells Hotel, they explained how those partnerships works. I see housing associations mentioned in the document they have provided today, as well as a reference to my own constituency. Will the delegates outline how this process is advanced and the benefits for communities?

Dr. Motherway mentioned the controversy in regard to wind farms and the pylons issue. Some of us are very much involved in that controversy in our constituencies. He remarked that developments in this regard will have to be done in an appropriate and acceptable manner. What does he consider to be appropriate and acceptable? It is a very divisive issue, with many people being strongly opposed to these types of developments.

I have noticed a trend whereby there seems to be a much greater take-up of the better energy warmer homes schemes in urban areas compared with rural counties. Are there reasons for this discrepancy? Surely homes need to be heated and energy needs to be saved in rural areas as well as in urban areas.