Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Ms Graham for her presentation. Like other Deputies and Senators, I would like to see the ESB drive on its apprenticeship programme. For far too long, we have neglected apprenticeships in this country. I would ask Ms Graham to pursue this programme and, where possible, to increase numbers in that regard.

I read in the media recently that the ESB subsidises wind energy to the tune of approximately €100 million. Is that correct and what is Ms Graham's view in that regard? In regard to the control of water, in respect of which Deputy O'Donovan spoke about the River Lee, there is a major problem on the River Shannon in that because the gates are not being opened, houses are at risk of being flooded. Why does the ESB not row-in with the farming organisations and so on to ensure a plan is drawn up to clean the river? In many cases, the reason for the flooding is pollution in the river. Gates are not being opened because it is not possible, owing to silt levels, to hold back the river. I would welcome Ms Graham's views on that matter.

I understand five nuclear plants are to be built in the UK. Does Ms Graham foresee a day when Ireland will be able to import electricity at a cheaper cost than it can produce it? I also understand that the existing ESB generator can only handle 50% of electricity generated by wind and that there is pressure on the ESB to increase this to 75%. The cost of upgrading the generator is estimated to be €800 million. I know that the ESB is opposed to this proposal and that its hand is being forced in this regard. I understand the ESB has been asked to review the proposal and report back to the regulator within the next 18 months. What is Ms Graham's view on that? Is the ESB, in terms of subsidisation and upgrade of the generation system, being forced to spend money badly?