Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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36. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will outline any job creation proposals in the energy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24542/14]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The Green Paper on Energy Policy in Ireland which I launched on 12 May highlights the potential of the energy sector to create jobs, attract investment, facilitate research and development, and enhance economic growth. Under the 2014 Action Plan for Jobs, provision is made for €57 million in Exchequer supports to further stimulate energy-saving activity in the residential sector. This is estimated to sustain approximately 3,500 jobs. A further €35 million is being invested in the creation of an Energy Efficiency Fund to invest in appropriate projects in the commercial and public sectors. SEAI estimates that the renewable and sustainable energy sector could create at least 30,000 jobs by 2020. As I have stated previously, all relevant State agencies, particularly in the enterprise area, will have to co-ordinate their activities to ensure Ireland maximises this job creation potential. This opportunity has already been identified by the IDA and Enterprise Ireland in their clean technology growth strategies. SEAI is currently working with Enterprise Ireland, the IDA and Forfás to examine what sectors and sub-sectors in the supply chains of energy efficiency and renewable energy offer the most opportunities for Irish firms in order to inform strategies to maximise job creation. Ireland is well positioned to leverage employment opportunities in the sector with our strong capabilities in key areas such as engineering and ICT; our research, development and demonstration base; our favourable corporate tax rate, and a well-educated, adaptable workforce.

In addition, our onshore and offshore renewable resources are significantly greater than the national energy requirement. In the context of a European Internal Market and greater integration, these resources represent an important energy trading opportunity in the post 2020 period.

I expect a full discussion on these matters as part of the current public consultation process on the Green Paper.