Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I absolutely agree that we need a debate on the Fine Gael Private Members' motion. It is unfortunate that for obvious reasons we were unable to take it yesterday. I urge the Leader to take it either today or to take two Private Members' motions next week. I think we have time to deal with it today, however, and Members have things to say on that matter. We have been away for the last couple of weeks so I certainly support the view that we should debate it. There are many issues to discuss, even in light of yesterday's UK budget. There are positive things the Government side can take out of this. The UK budget deficit looks like it is higher than the Irish one. The Government side can make its case but we need engagement and should discuss this issue. We also need to hear the Government's considered response to the IMF figures that came out yesterday.

Before the Easter recess, I asked the Leader for a debate on energy. I would specifically like a debate on what is going on in north Mayo. I am no apologist for Shell and I have major reservations about the deal we have done concerning offshore exploration. However, we will be 95% dependent on imported foreign energy from next year, as soon as the Kinsale gasfield finishes, which it almost has. Shell does not own the infrastructure and it cannot distribute gas through Ireland without our say so. We own the infrastructure through An Bord Gáis and we need to get that gas ashore. I do not speak for Shell but we have established democratic structures. We have gone through the process and Shell has met all the demands required of it at this stage. That gas should be brought ashore for the Irish people, not for Shell.

The Leader might not be too happy when I say there is a lack of political leadership on this issue. People are afraid to take on protestors. I come from a left perspective on this issue. I do not agree with any kind of fascist action which undermines democracy and I will fight against it. I am also looking at two Government Ministers — the two Eamons — Deputy Eamon Ryan and Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív, who are engaged in some kind of popularity contest in the west. They are competing against each other as to who can be the most amenable to everybody around them. There are issues at stake for the Irish people and the future of Irish energy independence, so we need stronger political leadership on the question of getting the gas onshore in Mayo. I am seeking a debate on that.