Mike Kennelly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will highlight ongoing issues around the Shannon LNG project off the coast of Kerry on the Shannon Estuary. It offers several positive contributions to Ireland's energy security, economic development, job creation and community growth, especially in the north Kerry area, which I represent. The project would provide Ireland with a crucial diversified source of natural gas, reducing dependence on a single energy source and ensuring a more resilient energy supply as global energy markets fluctuate. The ability to import LNG will help stabilise Ireland's energy needs, especially during periods of supply disruptions or increased demand. We know that, on 26 September 2022, three of the four subsea gas lines in the Nord Stream system were intentionally destroyed. On 8 October 2023, the Baltic subsea gas pipeline was damaged by a ship's anchor. It took six months to repair the Baltic subsea gas pipeline; the Nord Stream remains broken. During these disastrous events, the Government security of supply review confirmed that if Ireland's single point of gas supply from the UK was lost, there was no backup and customers would not be served. In practice, this means that homes, hospitals, schools and businesses would lose power and heat for an extended duration. In fact, the ESRI estimates that the cost could amount to €1 billion per working day. A backup gas supply is urgently needed. The draft security of supply review confirmed that only a floating liquified natural gas terminal, commonly called an FSRU, floating storage regasification unit, completely protects Ireland. New Fortress Energy proposed an FSRU on its Shannon Estuary land bank between Tarbert and Ballylongford in north Kerry. The programme for Government commits to taking all necessary action to ensure and protect Ireland's energy security. Given NFE's unique site and its industry experience and global resources, can the Leader confirm that the Government will support all options, including New Fortress Energy's? I call on the Minister to come to the House and would welcome his views.