Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 226: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will introduce a regulatory regime for the development and operation of geothermal energy here; when legislation to give effect to such a regime will be presented to the Houses of the Oireachtas; the progress being made in this regard; if his attention has been drawn to the necessity for a clear regulatory structure to facilitate the development of this sector of alternative energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23747/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I am conscious of the need to make maximum advantage of the potential of the fast growing geothermal energy sector and encourage investment while also introducing a suitable and proportionate level of Regulation in consultation with industry and other stakeholders.

My Department and the Geothermal Association of Ireland are co-hosting a workshop today, Tuesday 16th June 2009, to examine options for developing a regulatory framework for geothermal energy in Ireland. The proposed legislative approach for enabling development of the sector in Ireland will also be outlined.

Invitees have been selected from a range of public and private sector bodies with experience in the development of geothermal energy, and will include participation from Northern Ireland. Complex legal issues arise in regard to geothermal energy and my officials are actively engaging with the Office of the Attorney General in this regard. I also expect to receive the recommendations of the Geothermal Working Group in the next few weeks.

I can assure the Deputy that it is my intention to bring forward legislative proposals on geothermal energy at the earliest opportunity. I am determined, however, to ensure that such proposals will be appropriate for the purpose.