Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy referred to the cost of energy in Ireland by comparison with Manchester or many other countries. We are very conscious of the competitiveness difficulties and the action required to deal with these. As an island nation importing over 90% of our energy, we are obviously in a very vulnerable position. This is why our energy policy indicates we must place great emphasis on alternative energy sources. Renewable energy, in particular, must be developed. Wind and ocean energy have been prioritised and we are investing in them because we regard the growth in renewables as essential to securing competitiveness and to meeting at least some of our energy needs.

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