Mr. Denis O'Sullivan:

There are varying views on this. The International Energy Agency suggests we need more exploration and sites. It comes back to the fundamental point. If we continue to require gas up to 2050, our role is to ensure the supply of that gas is the most secure possible. Multiple entry points to the gas network are more secure than a single entry point. That is the simple point.

In the statement we submitted, we acknowledge there has to be a reduction in emissions. We want to support the country meeting its targets and we have put forward several measures we believe will significantly assist in this. In terms of continuing to use gas for power generation, we strongly believe carbon capture and storage in the Kinsale gas field needs to be driven forward and explored. At present, nobody can put a credible alternative on the table that would allow gas power generation to be shut off.