Dick Spring
Question:76 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Public Enterprise when she expects to publish a strategy for an All-Ireland energy market for gas and electricity. [2931/02]
Written Answers. - Energy Market.
North-South co-operation on energy matters has been going on for quite some time. The Deputy will be aware that last year my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Belfast jointly commissioned consultants to report on options for the future establishment of an all-island energy market. Following publication of these reports, both Departments organised a high level seminar in December last to discuss the report's recommendations. The seminar was restricted to invitees, that is, energy regulators North and South, system operators in both gas and electricity and renewable energy specialists as well as the Departments themselves. The seminar contributed substantially to the development of a common agenda going forward. The high level group agreed a number of policy areas which will be pursued in working group format over coming months. Much of this work is highly technical and will be led by the regulators with input from other players, including the two Departments. There will be a further meeting of the main group in April 2002 when a review of progress will be made.
Progress has also been made in other areas. The House will be aware that the Government recently decided to invest €12.7 million in support and development of the gas infrastructure in Northern Ireland. In addition, work is almost completed on upgrading the main electricity interconnector North and South. I am pleased with the ongoing high level of interaction and co-operation between the two Administrations on the issue of energy. I hope the excellent work currently being undertaken will lead to the creation of an all-island energy market which will bring about greater competition and benefits for the two economies and for consumers. I noted in The Irish Times on Tuesday that Sir Reg Empey was very positive about this co-operation.