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

I fully accept that we need consultation in the areas referred to by the Deputy. However, we must deliver a very ambitious increase in both forestry and wind farms. The Deputy is correct that offshore wind energy represents a significant opportunity for us. We have pencilled it in for 3.5 GW of power and, as such, it would be a very significant part of the story over the next decade. It has the potential to provide an even greater amount of power.

The Deputy is correct that the concentration of forestry is a source of significant resistance. There is very generous support for forestry. What is available is, effectively, the cost of the planting plus €600 per hectare for 15 years. There is support available, but the Deputy is correct that we must persuade people to come with us.

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