James Carroll (Fianna Fail)

I beg the Chair's pardon, although I am complimenting the man on his skill and foresight. The forum is working on nine different work plans. These are not aspirational plans that will sit on a shelf but are being implemented as we speak. One of them relates to renewable energy. Many counties could learn from this group and what it is doing. It also focuses on other areas such as tourism, but I will focus on the renewable energy area.

People tend to think that the renewable energy plan does not apply to the east coast but nothing could be further from the truth. People who live along the Atlantic coastline have a natural advantage but other areas can benefit from renewable energy. The Minister of State mentioned afforestation. That is a significant area. Lands that will not necessarily be successfully used for agriculture could be of major benefit to afforestation. This concept could be sold and marketed locally and it is up to Members of the Oireachtas from all parties to promote that.

I thank the Minister of State for giving a meaty speech on specific issues and not talking in generalities. Ireland has great potential for the development of renewable energy, both onshore and offshore. The development of these resources will be vital for Ireland both in terms of the country not being strangled with regard to carbon credits but also with regard to job creation. It is critical for setting this country on a sustainable path which all Members accept is the way forward.