Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his very comprehensive reply. Notwithstanding that, does he agree that energy price increases are never welcome, particularly in the winter and on foot of the current economic difficulties, which were, of course, not the responsibility of the current Government? Is it possible to monitor the impact of increases on both the domestic and commercial sectors as we approach the time of peak energy use, namely, wintertime? Arising from anything that might emerge, would it be possible at least to enter into dialogue with ComReg to ensure we do not allow circumstances whereby both industry and the domestic sector will be severely punished or disadvantaged arising from the proposals?

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