Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Everyone agrees with the Minister in that sense. While we want, of course, to reduce the impact by increasing the use of renewable energy, we must ensure we get the best possible deal when we export energy to another nation. It is in that context that the economic impact assessment comes in. The economic impact of taking people off the unemployment queues must also be taken into account. If that work is done with the greater involvement of the joint committee, decisions will be better informed. It is also the case that if there is proper public consultation, particularly with people living in the vicinity of any installations, better planning and construction decisions will be made.

See this speech in context