Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Social Democrats very much for bringing this very important motion before the Dáil. This is no disrespect to the Minister of State, but where in the name of goodness is the Minister, Deputy Ryan, today? Why could he not be here to debate this very important matter? Why could he not be here to answer questions and give his viewpoint? It is for the same reason he cannot go on any of the national broadcasters. He is afraid to face the people. He is afraid to answer questions from people on the Opposition side who have very valid questions on behalf of the electorate. We have fair and honest questions we want to put before him about his failed policies and fanciful ideas and his absolute, if the Minister of State will excuse me using the word, and it is polite word, raving antics. I would call him out to come into the Chamber when there is a debate like this and man up a small bit. He should face his responsibility as a senior Government Minister and answer the God damn questions we have to put before him.

The Dáil passed a similar type of motion in the Dáil last November, which was tabled by the Rural Independent Group, instructing the Government to act to reduce electricity prices for households, small businesses and farmers. We welcome the fact that this motion has been brought before the Minister of State today. We have to see a reduction in the cost of energy because of a simple fact. Why are we paying 50% more for energy in Ireland? Why does it cost 50% more to produce energy here than anywhere else? Why in the name of God did the Government not go ahead with the Shannon LNG facility to give us surety of supply? It should give us a chance and for God's sake try to let us have a bit of independence. The message this Government is giving people is that we should use more electricity and produce less of it at a higher cost.

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