Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As we know, the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, has already said we need to consider the impact of very high energy use and the price the Deputy’s constituents and other citizens pay for energy. However, I would still make the point to the Deputy that the very data centres he is referring to are an invaluable element and will be even more valuable regarding how Ireland can continue to be a place in which very large employers are present.

On the factors that influence the price of energy and the impact of speculative trading in that regard, the Deputy makes a fair and important point. The Commission is considering the ways in which we can better manage the price of energy and give greater certainty regarding the pressures that might arise in the coming period.

Some of the markets to which the Deputy referred play a valuable role in helping smaller businesses hedge against a rise in the price of fuel in the future.

See this speech in context