I am satisfied that my Department has undertaken an extensive consultation process to date regarding implementation of the EU electricity directive in Ireland which is due by February 2000. The directive requires that approximately 28 per cent of the Irish electricity market be opened to competition at that time, rising to about 32 per cent within three years.
The consultation process has included the following: proposals for implementing the directive were published in May 1997; a discussion forum was held in January 1998 and a further consultation document was published in May 1998. Approximately 60 sets of comments were received in response to the May consultation document. The respondents are generally supportive of the proposals and the early establishment of an independent regulatory commission.
Both I and my Department had numerous meetings with interested parties, including the ESB, prospective market entrants, consumer interests and the ESB group of unions, regarding the proposals for the restructuring of the electricity industry. I will continue to consult as appropriate with all interested parties.