Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will not be able to answer everything, but I will answer to the best of my ability. I recognise that one of the issues is the pressure on the rates base of local authorities. That issue was discussed yesterday and it is something at which we are going to have to look.

On retrofitting, we have committed hard cash to it. There is a sum of €20 million available and we will be mobilising the local authorities to be at the core in 2020. Clearly it is something we want to build in in the coming period. We have been admitted to the platform for coal regions in transition. I know that the new Commission is interested in putting funding through it; therefore, it will be an opportunity for us. I am open to suggestions on the terms of reference. If the Deputies want to make suggestions, I will be happy to consider them. We have tried to draw the terms in a broad fashion. We are very confident that we will get permission for the repurposing of the PSO, but obviously we will have to have it signed. We have done a lot of work in that regard and I am confident that we will deliver on it. The peat regulations do require the companies to apply for substitute planning permission. That is a requirement and it will have to be done. Again, I believe the work we are doing in restoring bogs strengthens the case.

On the other opportunities that are available, the ESB is the owner of the plant and has to evaluate its future. Clearly, there are alternatives, as we move to a renewables base, to have alternative sources of fuel at the times the wind does not blow and the sun does not shine. That is something the ESB will have to evaluate for the plant, as well as in its overall set. I recognise that we need to create opportunities in the midlands. Following the two particular announcements, there will be a concentration on working in the short term with those who have been impacted on most directly, certainly in providing for retraining and opportunities to switch to the new employment opportunities we are developing. To build that bridge, we will have to concentrate, in particular, on the areas where workers who have been directly affected are located. Of course, a just transition is something we will continue to pursue. I recognise the wider impact in the midlands.

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