Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

I do not wish to comment on what Mr. Tom Reeves said about support for alternative energy sources because I do not think that would be fair. I reiterate my belief, which is Government policy, that we need to support the alternative energy sector and adopt more ambitious targets. It was for this reason that we established the renewable energy development group that will report to me shortly.

I agree with the Deputy that we must examine alternatives to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, specifically gas. We should continue to support alternative sources of energy, including but not only wind. The renewable energy development group report should help to clarify the future direction of policy. We need to view alternative and renewable energies on a longer timescale than heretofore and spread costs over a longer period.

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