Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Let me finish. I am working with Bord na Móna to put an alterative system of employment in place in the midlands. I have already made decisions in that regard. We will be announcing a consultation document on the renewable heat incentive scheme before the end of this year, which will create demand for bio-energy crops in this country and will build up the capacity needed to convert these peat-fired stations from peat to biomass. The installation of solar panels across the midlands will not create jobs. We need to put in place a sustainable plan that benefits the local communities involved. It needs to be accepted that this is about communities and families. We need to come forward with sustainable solutions rather than suggestions to close three peat-fired power stations.

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