Joe O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The Senator's point is very much taken. The ESB recognises that the closure will impact on the midlands region. However, this does not mark an end to the long relationship of ESB with the region. The company has extensive ongoing operations, which include ESB Networks depots in several areas and the ESB Networks national training centre in Portlaoise, which provides training to 280 apprentices from all over Ireland. It also owns and operates several renewable energy wind farms across the midlands, each of which contributes significant revenues. In a joint venture with Vodafone, it has brought fibre broadband to 50,000 homes and businesses in many towns across the region. The ESB is ambitious for the region and its economy into the future and it is actively exploring options in investing in renewable energy projects. I spoke to the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, about this issue last night. There is a window at the moment to do something with the sites and he is very open to ideas and engagement on that. I expect the Senator will see him on site at some stage.