Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 77: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the damage to Ireland's national competitiveness caused by rising energy prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31906/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The price of energy affects the cost structure of all sectors of the economy, both domestic consumers and businesses alike. Global energy markets have seen sustained increases in price levels for the past two years. No consumer, whether industrial, commercial or personal is immune from the impact of higher oil, gas and electricity prices as a result of price changes on international markets. With 80% of our natural gas requirements currently being imported, we are all price takers in the market. However, the Irish economy has proved resilient with growth of 4.7% in GDP in 2005 with continued expansion of many sectors including those that are energy intensive (for example, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, construction and so forth). Despite elevated energy prices over the past couple of years there is no indication that high prices are having a marked impact on economic growth or employment.

Energy costs are predominantly a global issue, as they are driven primarily by oil prices. The development agencies under my Department are monitoring the issue of energy costs and the impact of such costs on the overall competitiveness of companies.

My colleague the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, who has primary responsibility in this area, has just published an Energy Green Paper which addresses key policy options for energy management. A two month consultation period is underway. Following this period a range of issues affecting energy and oil dependency will be set out in a White Paper.

The Oireachtas is currently examining the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill which will bring about an all island energy market. This will have a positive influence on energy costs to users. In addition, Sustainable Energy Ireland continues to vigorously promote and advise on energy efficiency through a range of programmes over the last number of years and is eager to provide its energy conservation and efficiency services to the SME sector.