Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I support the calls to the Leader for the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to come to the House for a debate on energy. It would be timely and all the items already mentioned are meritorious. Perhaps the Leader would include the proposition that a comprehensive grant system be introduced to encourage a modern system of insulation of all houses. I understand the cost would be approximately €2,500 to €3,000 per house. An incentive to kick-start the process and get people to do it would be very beneficial. It would ultimately save considerable money by way of a possible fine for non-compliance with the Kyoto Protocol. Having such a system of insulation in all dwellings would eliminate approximately 12.5% of our carbon emissions per year. I urge the Leader to have this matter included in a debate.