Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

This meeting is confined to a maximum of three hours. I propose that each member have two minutes to address their questions. We will have second and third rounds if there is time.

As I must leave the meeting early, I will contribute first. I have a high-level question which I will address to both the witnesses. Let us take a step back. The Energy Charter Treaty was introduced during the seismic political shift that took place 30 years ago when the Soviet Union collapsed. It was brought in for very good reasons, namely, to ensure the continued energy flow to countries, especially in Europe. Given that we are in another seismic period with respect to climate change, is there an argument or is there time to go back and look at the purpose of the Energy Charter Treaty? Should it be thrown out? Is that feasible? If not, is the treaty aligned with the goals under the Paris Agreement and the ambition to limit warming over the pre-industrial average to 1.5°C or at most 2°C? Is it aligned with the sustainable development goals? If not, what can be done to ensure that it is?