Mr. Jim Gannon:

Under section 15 of the climate Act, the Minister has powers to direct. As we mentioned, the Minister directed GNI as a relevant body relating to the climate Act. We believe that the GNI is acting consistently with that direction. That is currently in place as an interim step. In parallel with that, in terms of our activity, as we said, we believe we will make a decision on the large energy users connections policy for both gas and electricity in quarter 1 of next year. An interim or bridging measure is in place.

Part of our review of that connections policy is not just about our own regulatory framework. It will also set out what will need to change if we need to make an optimal design that is not within our gift right now. It will also reflect on whether either secondary or primary legislation would need to change. Again, it is about reminding ourselves, and this is a specific example, that electricity and gas connections would have focused on the availability and ability of people to get a connection - to get the energy they require for their homes, businesses or social activity - as distinct from also considering security of supply, decarbonisation and flexibility, and how those things can contribute. It may very well be that with some of that empowering legislation, that piece will change. In the interim, however, direction has been made by the Minister, which we believe is being respected.