Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader if possible to arrange for the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Eamon Ryan, to come to the House and to initiative a debate on the question of energy security. This is an issue which is becoming more critical every day both nationally and globally. I ask that the Minister outline the Government's position in the growing debate on the pros and cons of bio-fuels. This is in the context of increasing world hunger, whether the emphasis on the production of bio-fuels is positive or negative, it may be a crime against humanity as described in one of the leading newspapers yesterday.

I ask the Minister to outline the Government's position on the liquified natural gas project which is planned for north County Kerry. It has now passed all stages of the planning process, including an oral hearing at An Bord Pleanála. I ask that the Minister indicate his support for this project and that he would be prepared to get involved as a facilitator. The project is very much in line with his party's policy. It is hoped to remove any outstanding concerns that may linger among a small group of the community. This project has the support of the entire business community and the support of the population of an area which is witnessing increasing unemployment.