Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This motion may be well-intentioned but it fails to grapple with the harsh realities of Ireland's energy landscape and the potential economic fallout of its proposed policies. In the real world, Ireland, like many other countries, is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with about 88% of our energy in 2023 coming from these sources. A sudden shift away from fossil fuels could have significant economic repercussions. The agricultural sector, a cornerstone of Ireland's economy, is heavily dependent on fossil fuels for machinery, transportation and production processes. A rapid transition could disrupt this sector, leading to economic instability and potential job losses. Fossil fuels are currently the lifeblood of Ireland's energy sector, powering 88% of our vehicles, homes and industries. A sudden divestment of fossil fuels, as proposed, could plunge the country into an energy crisis with severe repercussions for every facet of our daily lives, from transportation to heating our homes. Furthermore, the wording of the motion attacks agribusiness and overlooks the sector's vital role in the economy and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. While it is true that agribusiness can be a source of greenhouse gas emissions, it is also a sector ripe for innovation and sustainable practices. Painting it as a villain is a disservice to the many farmers who strive to make their operations more environmentally friendly.

This motion's proposals seem to be rooted more in idealism than in practicality. The reality is that Ireland's planning system is mired in gridlock, and it could take decades before renewable energy sources become a viable alternative to fossil fuels. The motion's failure to acknowledge this reality raises questions about the feasibility of its proposals. What are the alternatives? We have no alternative. That is the problem we have. We have a lot of dreamers in this Chamber and I would love to come in and say we should all have a Jaguar and go home in it. There is no alternative at this stage for farmers who want to put produce on our tables. There is no point in Deputy Pringle smiling and laughing over there. Let him go back to Donegal and tell the fishermen to go out on a battery boat, or tell the farmer to go out and till his land with a battery. He will smile then and see when they bang the door and let him know where he stands.

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