Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)

I thank the witnesses for coming. It might be important for them but it is equally important for us. It is an education for us to know what their briefs are and they are very helpful in explaining and responding to particular questions. When the Wicklow wind farm was being established, were there many issues? Did many people object to it? There is a perception that wind farms could have serious implications for the fishing sector. From what the witnesses stated, it is the last thing they want. If we take the UK and, indeed, Northern Ireland, as a template, it will not be an entire area that will be an exclusive zone just for fish farms. Are there guidelines for where there is a turbine or a fish farm in place? In what proximity of these should vessels be obliged not to enter? We talk about 2029 and 2030, and I hope we can achieve the target in that regard. In the meantime, however, how many applications are with An Coimisiún Pleanála? If there are applications before it, who submitted them? All State agencies can do is create the atmosphere conducive to investment by the private sector. I have always believed that the engine of growth in the economy is the private sector. Do the witnesses find there is an interest from those in the private sector who want to invest in Ireland? Is it seen as a risky business, especially in the early stages when there might be teething problems.

On ports, I am very much a Donegal man. I am very proud of the investments that were made in Killybegs, some of which happened when I had responsibility in this area. Only recently, I was told that 30 or more cruise vessels are visiting Killybegs. That was born out of a very simple meeting I had in Miami many years ago. I was envious of the ports around Europe that were benefiting from this and thought, "Why not us?"

It came to fruition because the infrastructure is there. Does Killybegs have the infrastructure required to service? If you go up and down the coast, there is not much more available to do that. If other ports require investment - this question is as much for Ministers as it is for the witnesses - do the witnesses believe the Government should invest in those or maybe improve the one in Killybegs if that is necessary?

Did the witnesses have an input in the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021? I appreciate one of the organisations was not established until 2023. Was there input or was the Bill decided unilaterally almost by officials in the relevant Department? Have the witnesses taken the opportunity to visit wind farms in other parts of Europe and the world? They are the templates. If they have, I would be interested to know what their views are. I might have more questions, but I will give the witnesses the opportunity to respond.