Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

I welcome Resolution No 2 although it is not my wont to welcome resolutions at any time. However, we should all welcome anything that would address the burden that is imposed on householders arising from gas and electricity price increases in the past three months, which flew in the face of international trends. Although the degree of alleviation is not nearly as great as one would have liked, any excise duty that adds to the burden of costs will result in the relocation of businesses. We have spoken about that issue and no doubt it will arise in the course of the debate tomorrow.

Having regard to the all-island electricity market, to what extent do we compare with Northern Ireland on excise duty in this area? I am delighted to note that the Tánaiste has entered the House, which is a major achievement because he left rather suddenly earlier tonight. I thought he had gone off to climb a telegraph pole. I officially welcome him back. On a momentous occasion like this, the debate could not continue without his enlightened approach. Perhaps the Taoiseach might elucidate further on the comparisons between the excise duty here and that in Northern Ireland and the degree to which we are in an enviable or other position.

As one of the few remaining living smokers, I am afraid I am hit again by the excise duty increase on tobacco products. While I am loath to welcome such a provision, since it is coming in my direction there is nothing I can do to deflect it. I humbly accept that particular burden, as unfortunately I am totally guilty.

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