Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We have previously discussed the price of energy in both the domestic and commercial markets. We spoke in particular about the profits of the ESB. Figures released recently indicated a fourfold increase in the company's profits in 2012. It was suggested previously that the half-yearly profits were unduly high compared to what would be expected in the second half of the year. The public is under severe pressure, as the Minister is well aware, at a time when an energy company that has a fourfold increase in profits is still looking for an increase in the product it is selling on the market. One could ask whether it is time to examine the structure for the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, and whether it ultimately provides safeguards for homeowners or businesses.

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