Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The national energy security framework, published in April 2022, sets out the response of the Government to the Ukraine crisis in the context of natural gas, oil and electricity. It provides a single overarching initial response to address Ireland's energy security needs in the context of the war in Ukraine and sets out the Government's action in response to these issues across key themes, which includes ensuring security of energy supply in the near term.

The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications has set up an energy security emergency group, chaired by the Department's Secretary General, under the national energy security framework. This group ensures that emergency plans are in place, and are stress-tested and up to date. Emergency training exercises have been ongoing over many years as part of regular and ongoing contingency planning.

Gas Networks Ireland and EirGrid, the latter working in conjunction with ESB Networks, have robust procedures in place with regard to managing any shortfall in gas and electricity supplies. They regularly participate in simulation exercises to stress test the systems and procedures for emergencies to ensure that Government, State agencies and industry are prepared to effectively manage a range of potential scenarios.

The Commission for the Regulation of Utilities oversees the overarching emergency plans and works in conjunction with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications. ComReg can follow up on this issue.