Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)

I support this motion and oppose both the Fianna Fáil and the Government's amendments. Fianna Fáil must make up its mind on this issue. A type of split personality syndrome is developing among the party's Deputies. Are they in favour of taking back what Fianna Fáil Ministers disgracefully gave away? One of them, Ray Burke, was subsequently found to be corrupt. This amendment is nothing more than a kicking to touch.

Regarding the Government amendment, do the Labour Party Deputies on the opposite side have any bottom line? Is there any depth below which they are not prepared to go, or is being in Government the only policy or principle left to them?

The key issue is the establishment of a State oil, gas and mineral exploration company as the best way to ensure the estimated €800 billion worth of oil and gas, onshore and offshore, is developed in the interests of the people. It is the best way to ensure there is maximum financial benefit to the State, that jobs, infrastructure and expertise are developed in Ireland, there is security of supply, and the oil and gas are supplied to industry and homes in this country at reasonable prices.

The maintenance of the status quo does none of these things. It gives a measly financial return to the State. There are no guarantees of jobs or security of supply and oil and gas will be sold at home at international prices. We will gain nothing. The licensing system can be changed. This is an international trend as in, for example, Russia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Norway etc. There is a choice for the Government. This is an even bigger giveaway than the bank bailout. It is not only economic treason but treason of the highest order.

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