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

To respond to Deputy Pringle's question, while I am very open to constructive suggestions, I am not open to the suggestion that we close down the three peat fired power stations tomorrow and have all the seasonal workers who are driving tractors become electricians and retrofit houses in Dublin. This is the type of solution that is being put forward. What we need are practical solutions and I am very open to any practical, logical solution regardless of who proposes it.

I will address the issue of solar power in a couple of minutes. Deputy Stanley is correct on the role of local government. My Department works very closely with local authorities on waste initiatives, including reducing food waste, which has a direct impact on the environment. My local authority, Roscommon County Council, is involved in converting its vehicle fleet to a low emission fleet. The Department, through the ESB, is engaging with local authorities on the issue of public lighting with a view to reducing overall electricity demand. This will have a direct impact on the environment and generate additional funds for local authorities to be invested in other energy solutions and community projects.

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