Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I am pleased to have an opportunity to say a few words on this important Bill. I welcome its introduction in the House as it gives us an opportunity to discuss the concerns of the general public in this regard. Many people would like to do something about the alternative forms of energy that are available in this country. This issue affects individuals and industries around the country. When I visited the Bulmers cider plant in Clonmel some weeks ago, I discussed with management the issues and problems being faced by this old established employer. It produces a very saleable product at its modern plant, which is one of the finest facilities of its kind in the world. The first and most problematic difficulty that was mentioned by management was the cost of energy. He said if the company could control the cost of energy, it would guarantee the future of the plant for many years. When one examines this issue, the first question one must ask is whether the company has considered alternative energy but he replied it was too costly. What will the Government do for companies such as Bulmers in Clonmel? At the same time as introducing the legislation, the Government has imposed a carbon tax-----

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