Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 321: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the proposals, if any, he has to deal with the red tape that is blocking the progress of a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14215/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 2 of 7 March 2012. The decision on the regulatory treatment of the gas interconnectors is statutorily a matter for the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) under the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act 2002. I have no function in the matter. The CER, as the independent energy regulator, has a remit to protect energy consumers, ensure security of supply and support competitiveness. It also has a duty to ensure new sources of gas for the Irish market do not result in unwarranted increases in the price of gas to business and domestic consumers. On 17 February, the CER published a Proposed Decision Paper on the issue of the regulatory treatment of the gas interconnectors. Together with all players and potential players in Ireland's gas market, Shannon LNG has a key commercial interest in the outcome of the CER's ultimate decision on this very complex regulatory question. Given the complexities, there are many different perspectives on this issue. On 1 March the CER held a further Public Forum for stakeholders. The objective of the Forum was to give stakeholders the opportunity to discuss with the CER any issues relating to the contents of the proposed Decision Paper in order to help inform the CER's final decision. I understand that representatives of Shannon LNG attended the Forum. Stakeholders have a further opportunity to respond to the CER by 16 March on the matters raised in the Proposed Decision Paper. At the end of this period, the CER will assess all comments received and publish a final decision. I understand the CER expects a final decision to be available within two months. The CER's decision will bring the regulatory certainty needed by all stakeholders in the gas market including those with investment decisions to make.