Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

In terms of the energy situation, clearly the issues that arose between Russia and Ukraine had severe impacts on quite a number of EU member states. In a spirit of solidarity all member states are very concerned at what transpired, in terms of the commercial and economic disruption as well as the inability of both countries to live up to their contractual responsibilities in terms of the delivery of gas to EU member state customers. That has highlighted the need to diversify in terms of energy.

In the context of the economic recovery plan, a range of energy infrastructure projects are under discussion, relating to inter-connection and the improvement of energy supply and so forth, which would facilitate a better and more diversified energy situation. That is under active consideration by the Commission as we speak.

As regards Croatia, once the terms of an accession treaty have been agreed, the Tánaiste, as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment will bring recommendations to Government as regards how that particular matter will be dealt with.

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