Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

It is topical enough in the sense that we were guests of George Hook in the civic library in Tallaght. The reason I mention it is that the event is part of the Bord Gáis library opportunity which is being run throughout the country. George Hook made a point about the importance of energy supply. The nice managing director from Bord Gáis made the case for his supply, which was fair enough.

What sort of world would it be without energy or without electricity? I am old enough to remember a time when it was not always possible to switch on the radio or to have an electricity supply. A few weeks ago, Deputy Pat Breen and I went with the organisation, IAVI, to Entebbe in Uganda to evaluate an AIDS project. The reason I mention it is that sometimes one needs to go to places such as that which do not have radio, television or electricity and see the challenges that brings. That is relevant because people have asked me during the week if God is not happy. He may not be given the volcano and what has happened in our air space.

I often think about what it will be like in 50 or 60 years time, what we will do about energy supplies and what the challenges will be. I am genuinely pleased this Minister has shown a progressive attitude - I know everyone in the Chamber will agree with that - towards his remit. It is right that he does so, because it is a challenge.

The events of the past week, which have affected Europe and have had consequences throughout the world, prove that we need to look at the alternatives. I suspect there will be much debate about energy and other issues arising from what has happened, which is good.

I look forward to listening to Deputy Coveney conclude the debate because I am interested to know how close the Opposition is to the Government on many of these issues. There will always be a dotting of i's and a crossing of t's in Private Members' business but I hope, as we go forward, there will be a different kind of government in power and it is important we understand the alternatives. I am not saying what they should be and having listened to the Labour Party conference at the weekend, I am not sure how that will manifest itself but I look forward to seeing it.

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