Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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346. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the memorandum of understanding signed between his Department and the British Government regarding the export of renewable energy from Ireland is a legally binding document; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6298/14]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The Memorandum of Understanding on energy co-operation is not a legally binding document. It is, however, a statement of both Ireland's and the UK's shared interest in exploring the opportunity to export green electricity from Ireland to Britain. It has led to detailed consideration, which is continuing, of how Irish renewable energy resources, onshore and offshore, might be developed to the mutual benefit of both countries.

For Ireland to enter into any Inter-Governmental Agreement there would have to be clear, realisable and significant benefits accruing to Ireland. Any potential rewards would have to outweigh all potential risks.

Subject to the on-going cost benefit analysis being finalised, and agreement regarding the benefits accruing to Ireland from any agreement, the ambition would be to settle an Inter-Governmental Agreement during 2014.