Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

I recognise the work of the Minister and the Department. A number of EU member states have tried to introduce a similar windfall levy but it has proven to be tricky legally to do so. Even though I have been banging this drum for ages, I acknowledge this has not been a simple process legally. It is a shame this could not have been done a few years ago because significant sums could have been ploughed back into driving energy prices down or implementing other measures but we are close to having the levy in place, which is welcome. The briefings we had were useful and the work on the legislation has been solid. I am sure it will be tested legally. The Opposition has followed through on its commitment that it would not unnecessarily hold up the Bill.

See this speech in context