Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

I will not object to any support measures we may need to put in place. However, there should not be an absolute and blanket assumption that such measures will be needed. It is important to consider the reality of the experience in other countries as we make our decision. It would not be appropriate for me to announce today the type of support price or mechanism we should put in place. This proposed directive was cleared by the European Council last week. We will have to respect any changes to the proposed directive which may be made by the European Parliament when it is referred to that forum. When the final outcome of the deliberations in Brussels is known, we will ask the public and the various bodies interested in this sector for their views. The Government position that will be outlined at that point will be based on detailed analysis of the support systems which might have to be put in place, if it is actually necessary in the light of international experience to do so.

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