Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

A total of 87% of our energy needs are met by importing fossil fuels. Since the National Competitiveness Council's report was published last October there has been another spike in oil prices. The price is $55 per barrel today. Does the Minister agree that this is a major threat to our competitiveness? We are uniquely exposed. What analysis has the Minister carried out in that regard and what remedial action can the Department take to tackle what I believe will be the biggest crisis for our economy and society in the next ten years?

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