Dick Spring
Question:30 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline his programme of work in the context of the Irish Presidency of the EC; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - EC Presidency.
Our EC Presidency energy programme of work already under way deals with the transit of gas, the transit of electricity and transparency of gas and electricity prices charged to industrial end-users. The transit draft directives would provide for a fully integrated Community energy infrastructure and I am giving them special attention on the basis that we will be in a position to avail of the resulting benefits through having a full community network in both electricity and gas. I am sponsoring actively a parallel measure to provide for transparency of gas and electricity charges to industrial end-users.
Movement in these areas will help towards liberalising the market and make for the efficient use of investment in the energy sector.
I will also be seeking Council approval for the demonstration programme (THERMIE) as a replacement for two programmes of financial aid for demonstration and innovation in energy technology which expired at the end of last year. The new programme will be applicable to solid fuels, rational use of energy, new and renewable sources of energy and hydrocarbons. I am also pressing that the commission will have ready for Council's consideration before June 1990, two major policy documents — covering long term energy issues and a statement on energy and the environment.
On nuclear matters, I am determined to promote a new and invigorated approach to nuclear safety in the Community, with special emphasis on progressing the case for a nuclear safety inspectorate.