Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

As we approach the summer recess, the Government has only got around to bringing forward the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill. It appears that neither that Bill nor this Bill will be completed by the time the Dáil goes into recess, which is a shocking scenario. In both of these Bills the Minister will be given emergency powers, which we in the Opposition consider are essential.

Under this Bill, NORA is finally being established as a stand-alone, non-commercial State body and is being given the ensuing commercial flexibility to act efficiently and effectively. I commend the Minister on doing that in this legislation. Since oil is the dominant fuel accounting for 60% in our energy mix it is critical for powering many aspects of our working and everyday life, with the transport sector depending almost 100% on oil for its fuel supply. With no indigenous sources of oil, we are completely dependent on imported sources to keep our economy moving, the lights on, and homes and businesses heated throughout the country. Global supplies of oil are also rapidly being depleted. We had a debate on whether we will approach the peak in oil production in two years' time or whether that may happen during the term of office of the next Government or four Governments hence. This Bill afforded the Minister a perfect opportunity to set out his vision for the country in regard to oil supplies.

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