Matt Shanahan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

There has been much talk in the House in recent days of the use of State assets, how Irish interests are being protected and such, and the use of financial investment vehicles to create additional resourcing. At present we are embarking on a multi-billion euro strategy to delivery offshore wind energy and again we will have to utilise foreign investment houses. The Taoiseach may not be able to answer my questions now but he might come back to me in writing. I have a couple of questions about State protections. Have we protected ourselves in terms of the future spot rate of electricity to the Irish consumer versus what will be exported from the Irish wind energy grid? Have we proposed any options within the contracts that would allow the Irish State to buy out those contracts at any time during the 25-year licensing period. Has Government looked at any real options to provide community participation? In Scotland, wind farms can attract up to 50% community involvement.

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