Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We are over-reliant on imports of coal, oil and gas in the context of meeting our energy needs. We import some 90% of these fuels at present. We will be obliged to accelerate our efforts in respect of the delivery of renewable energy. The UK's reserves of gas almost ran out last month and Ireland is very reliant on the interconnector with Scotland for its gas. If there was a breakdown in supply, then we would have great difficulty meeting our gas needs. Will the Minister use his good offices to promote and, if possible, see to it that approval is forthcoming in respect of the LNG project at Tarbert? It appears that gas from the Corrib will not be brought onshore until 2015. As a result, there is a need to expedite matters in respect of the project at Tarbert. As the Minister is well aware, a huge number of jobs are at stake. Ireland has probably the greatest potential among the member states of the European Union in respect of developing sources of renewable energy. However, we are falling far behind other countries in our efforts. Outside of the motor industry, in Germany more jobs have been created in the renewable energy sector than in any other. This is in a country which is home to car manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Mercedes, Porsche, etc. Ireland has huge potential in the area of renewable energy.

See this speech in context