Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I am proud that Fine Gael initiated the calls for the independent study. Deputy Coveney and I were at the vanguard of the Joint Committee on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in calling for this. I appreciate that the Minister acknowledged the concept. Although the fault does not necessarily lie with the Minister and we cannot blame him for bad weather, I regret that the company carrying out the independent study group did not grant a hearing to the pylon pressure group, the representatives of local communities. While the group made a written submission, it should have been heard in session. This would have done much to bridge connectivity and allay fears. I am happy to be corrected but it was represented to me by the pressure groups that they were not allowed to appear before the study group with technical teams and representatives. Perhaps the Minister could interact with the study group on this matter.

I accept the Minister's reply in respect of funding and take his point that everything ultimately appears on the table of the consumer. Also, I take his point that this will ultimately reduce electricity prices, which is the objective, but it is important to note that consumers are paying too much as it is and that the price rises proposed are not sustainable.

If the Minister can reply to this point I will make the rest of my summations brief. From the Minister's speeches on Second Stage and in the Dáil, I understand that the east-west and North-South interconnectors will facilitate greater access to the grid from renewable energy sources, such as wind farms. I welcome that. It is of great concern to me, and I am sure to the Minister, that we do not have easier access to the grid. In practical terms, does he see improvements being introduced soon? Will he inform the House as to why access is so poor at present?

We should establish co-operative wind farms throughout the country on the model of the co-ops of old. A group of farmers could come together and have a couple of wind turbines on each farm. They should have access to the grid for the power generated, providing them with an income and boosting the local economy and, perhaps, taking care of difficulties. The Minister is aware that agricultural incomes are adversely affected by the cost of inputs, such as fertilisers and meals, which are disproportionately costly this year.

As well as the matter of farm incomes, we also have the issues of the merit of renewable and alternative energy, establishing sustainability and energy security and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. Will the Minister expand on how he envisages more access to the grid? Where are the obstacles? How does he see the situation improving? What steps can he and the Department take to improve this? This is of great concern to me and to colleagues.

Why can seven or eight farmers in County Cavan in my constituency, or in any other county, not come together and form a co-operative, produce wind power and have access to the grid? Senator Wilson agrees with this point. Why can more companies not access the grid with renewable energy? I would like to hear from the Minister on this point, as would many people throughout the country.