Brendan Kenneally (Fianna Fail)

I am glad of the opportunity to speak on this measure. The Electricity Regulation Act 1999 was the first step in the process of liberalisation of the electricity sector in this country. It is intended this process should continue and any discussion in this area is welcome.

As someone who introduced a Private Members' Bill in Dáil Éireann, during my time as a Member of that House, I realise the amount of work involved in putting together such a measure. Accordingly, I commend Senator Higgins on the efforts he has made to bring this measure forward and to put it before us tonight. It is an honourable attempt to bring about improvements in the sector but I am not in a position to support it.