Mr. Tom Marren:

In relation to the support mechanism, we see from the industry here that operating these plants in Ireland is substantially more expensive than operating them in other European countries.

The reason is the differential between the costs of electrical power and fossil fuel power. We may not need a 15-year support mechanism. I do not believe we will because there will be a natural migration as we bring in more renewable energy. This does not have any additional operational cost to generate. It may be a shorter term requirement but there is definitely a cost-support mechanism required.

If we look to Europe, we see many examples. Germany has just announced a €50 billion package to support its industries in decarbonising the heat sector. Its approach is based on carbon because it has many more in the ETS. Many European countries are taking the same approach. It is a matter of how we accelerate the electrification of industrial heat, a key achievable target, within a short period. I am sure industry representatives will explain the cost differential between operating a plant in Ireland and operating a plant in Finland with the same technology.