Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

In the context of other building regulations, it is also fair to say that no Administration in the history of the State has done more to improve matters. The original regulations from 1992 were improved in 1998 and 2002, and we continue to make improvements.

Senator Brian Hayes mentioned that we were threatened in 1998 by business interests that manufacture particular types of brick. I will not condemn or promote those interests, any more than I will promote the companies that produce the type of house pushing this debate and which have engaged public relations people who operate in senior political circles, not Fianna Fáil.

Market choice is another issue and involves a cultural factor. People looking for a house are not looking for energy efficiency, but I welcome the fact that in January we will have an energy rating on every house.

I have a serious problem with the attitude expressed in the motion to the Power of One campaign. We need to address the culture of wastage of which we are all guilty. We spoke earlier today about the carnage on our roads at weekends. The solution is not about enforcement or the speed of cars but about changing the culture among people. Equally, the Power of One campaign can do most in the shortest period of time in the context of energy efficiency. For example, how many of us at home or here have a laptop plugged in while not in use? How often do we leave our mobile phones plugged in, even when they are switched off? These actions involve a significant waste of energy, but could be simply addressed. I commend the Government on the Power of One campaign, on its greener home scheme, the various grant aid programmes for combined heat and power and the excise relief scheme for biofuels, etc.

I would be the first to admit that we have a lot done, more to do. In his speech the Minister of State outlined some of the targets we have set. I would like to think we could set the bar higher or push the boat out further. This would be possible if the unit in the Department could be further resourced to bring forward the review on building regulations. We could then see if it was possible to universally adopt recommendations that would do, such as those adopted by Fingal County Council and other local authorities. In the meantime, there is nothing to stop other county councils from doing the same and we would encourage them to do so. Fingal County Council enjoys the full support of the Minister and the various Departments involved.

We need to do more. Under the current national development plan some €6 billion was originally allocated for roads, but only €145 million to energy. We should bear this in mind in the preparation of the next development plan and ensure we provide sufficient resources so that we can reach and exceed our targets. It would be even better to try to push the boat out.

I welcome the fact that we have had two debates on the issue of energy in a period of three weeks. They are possibly the only two debates we have had on the issue in the past five years. Energy is one of most important challenges to face the country and we should factor in at least four debates a year on the issue. I thank Senator O'Toole for raising the matter. I support the amendment and reiterate our maxim — a lot done, more to do.