Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

If we had the resources, in the form of storage capacity, we could have had free gas for half of next year. We have an opportunity to provide for measures which will require the Commission for Energy Regulation to consider this issue as the all-island market develops. People sometimes say that poverty measures should only be discussed in terms of the budget — they should be examined in terms of how one can help pensioners, people on low incomes and great social organisations like the Society of St. Vincent de Paul which are trying to alleviate poverty. This issue is central to the point I am making.

People would not be so hard-pressed if fuel prices were lower. I believe the prices this year should have been lower. The members of the Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources argued to Mr. Reeves a couple of weeks ago that lower prices could be sustained. Therefore, I urge the Minister of State to accept amendment No. 18. He should include this measure in the Bill to demonstrate that this House and the Government are serious about combatting energy poverty, rather than crucifying the poorest people in society, such as those on the lowest incomes, in 2007. The Government will reap a tough reward for its approach when election day comes.

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