Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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131. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he or his Department officials have met with private bodies interested in pursuing a commercial LNG facility in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30069/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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I recently received Government approval to proceed with the development of a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve. The delivery of a temporary gas reserve is critical to Ireland’s energy security as we continue to transition to indigenous, clean renewable energy. Crucially, the strategic gas emergency reserve will also ensure compliance with EU standards and regulation.

The Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve is not intended for commercial use, it will be owned and operated by the gas system operator Gas Networks Ireland. The liquified natural gas (LNG) will be held in reserve for use in the event of a significant disruption to gas supplies and FSRU will be divested when no longer required to secure Ireland's energy systems.

I have not met with any private bodies interested in pursuing a commercial LNG facility in Ireland. I am aware that officials in my Department met with private bodies with an interest in pursuing commercial LNG facilities in Ireland during the lifetime of the previous government. Department Officials also meet private bodies who may have an interest in pursuing commercial LNG facilities at engagements relating to other energy projects or at industry forums.