Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

As part of our ongoing review, we examined policies in other European countries. As Deputy Coveney noted, Spain has introduced such a scheme but this is being challenged in the Spanish courts and by the European Commission. We are rightly following our own legal advice in investigating our options because we recognise that complex legal issues arise. I am proud of the work done by my Department in conjunction with the ESB over the past nine months in recognition of these realities and the market conditions.

The only long-term solution to delivering competitiveness in the electricity market, which is crucial to the digital and other industries, is developing renewable energy and efficiency measures in order to reduce costs. One of the reasons for the introduction of the emissions trading scheme is to promote renewable electricity, which does not have a carbon cost.

Apparently, on the basis of the contributions of its members, Fine Gael fundamentally disagrees with the work we have done. Certain Fine Gael Members stated that their party does not agree with the ESB's reform strategy. They are entitled to their position but I am of the view that the reform strategy is the proper response because it will allow us to work with our State agencies——

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