Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

Regarding the Minister's comment on the operation of other deregulated markets, is it not correct that the result in the energy sector has been underinvestment, with amber and red alerts and blackouts? Has the Minister transmitted to Commissioner McCreevy the Government's view of the 2009 deadline? Many of his European counterparts have conveyed strong views to the Commissioner. For example, Mr. Alain Hutchinson MEP of the Parti Socialiste in Belgium has stated that the European directive, if adopted, would have disastrous consequences for Belgian citizens.

Perhaps Fine Gael might give me a chance to ask the question. This is the second time that its members have interrupted.

See this speech in context