Vol. 542 No. 3
98 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the degree to which adequate supplies of fuel are stockpiled in the event of a shortage generated by circumstances, foreseen or unforeseen; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24570/01]
As a member of the International Energy Agency – IEA – Ireland is obliged to maintain oil stocks equivalent to 90 days of net imports, and the EU imposes a similar requirement based on consumption. On 1 October 2001, Ireland's oil stocks were estimated to be 106 days under the IEA system. These stocks comprise company and consumer operational stocks together with strategic stocks held by the National Oil Reserves Agency – NORA.
I am satisfied the level of stocks held by Ireland, together with the mechanisms which exist at both the IEA and national levels for dealing with oil supply shortages, are sufficient to minimise the adverse impact on this country of any interruption in normal supply arrangements. I am informed by the ESB that its policy is to hold about nine weeks of coal stocks at Moneypoint.
Questions Nos. 99 to 101, inclusive, answered with Question No. 30.
