Larry Butler (Fianna Fail)

I agree with Senator Quinn that we should have a debate on our energy approach and how we will position ourselves in terms of the European grid. It is vitally important. A group of engineers and architects approached me recently about a study they have done regarding wind and water energy. They have done a detailed survey and found that wind energy is very good when the wind is blowing, but they designed a system whereby they would introduce a water system with the wind system which would create 24-7 support for wind energy. This would also involve the farming community, which would be welcome in terms of income from their point of view. It would create a situation where a lake form water system would be developed which would support the fishing industry. I am very enthused about that.

A study done has shown we have natural energy with a potential value of €68 billion per year — equivalent to that of Saudi Arabia — if we were to develop it and feed it into the EU grid. We could be net exporters of energy. This is the way we have to go. Ireland is far too small for nuclear energy. However, I agree we should have a debate on it. We should discuss how we can exploit our natural resources at sea. We are being hampered in this regard by a few people in County Mayo, which is disgraceful. Last night they broke into a compound and caused much damage, which is bad for our reputation worldwide. A multinational company comes here and creates 700 or 800 jobs in the construction of its facility, yet people are taking the law into their own hands. It sends out the wrong message.

Perhaps the Leader could arrange for a debate on this as soon as possible because it is an important issue. I want to bring in the group I mentioned and have an all-party meeting in this regard as soon as possible. The prospects are exciting and we should advance the development of such projects.