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

I propose to take Question Nos. 40 and 45 together.

Substantial work has been and continues to be undertaken across Government to identify the key strategic, policy and operational risks following the outcome of the referendum on EU membership in the UK in June. A Cabinet committee chaired by An Taoiseach, of which I am a member, has been set up to consider all potential contingency planning issues arising for Ireland from the referendum result. My Department sits on a number of interdepartmental groups that ensure a whole-of-Government approach to this important matter.

Energy is a priority sector for the Government in considering the impacts of Brexit. The energy systems of Ireland and the UK are interdependent with a large amount of Ireland's energy supply being imported from the UK and a single electricity market in operation across the island of Ireland. The key priorities for me are the continuation of the current Ireland-UK energy relationship, particularly with regard to secure trade of gas and oil and the continued operation and development of the single electricity market. There is excellent co-operation between the UK and Ireland on security of energy supply and all avenues will be pursued bilaterally with the EU and at EU level to ensure this remains the case.

As the House is no doubt aware, the EU has made the decision not to negotiate on any issues relating to Brexit until after Article 50 has been invoked. However, while attending meetings, such as the Energy Council, from which I have just returned, I seek out discussions with Ministers from other member states. Through these meetings, I raise awareness of how Ireland may be impacted by Brexit and what are our key concerns.

At the recent North-South Ministerial Council, I had a bilateral meeting with Simon Hamilton MLA, the Minister for the Economy in Northern Ireland, where we discussed energy issues relevant to both Ireland and Northern Ireland. My officials continue to work closely with their counterparts in Northern Ireland, the UK and other EU member states on energy matters.

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