Written Answers Nos. 1-40
3. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the transformation needed of Ireland’s economy from one based on imported fossil fuel to a low-carbon economy using renewable energy and energy efficiency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24804/14]
View answerThe EU has set a goal of reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions by 80-95% below 1990 levels by 2050. Under the Government’s planned Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill, which was recently published, those sectors of the economy with significant carbon emissions are required to produce plans to lower these emissions. The Bill and the associated National Policy Position, which were recently published, envisage Ireland aiming to achieve at least an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions in aggregate across the electricity generation, transport and built environment sectors by 2050. A National Low Carbon Roadmap for how these reductions will be achieved will be approved by Government and published in 2014. Achieving such a reduction in CO2 emissions will be very difficult. The Environmental Protection Agency’s most recent report on greenhouse gas emissions projections shows that there is significant risk, even under the best case scenario, that Ireland will not meet its 2020 targets and that we face considerable challenges to becoming a low carbon economy. Late last year I published a scoping report on a low carbon roadmap for the electricity generation sector and undertook a public consultation on the matter. Over the coming months my Department will continue to work on evaluating options that can lower emissions from electricity generation while maintaining economic competitiveness and ensuring that everyone can afford to heat and power their homes.
The first milestone towards achieving a low carbon economy by 2050 is the delivery of the 2020 targets set by the EU and the corresponding national targets. Ireland has a requirement to achieve a binding target of 16% of energy demand coming from renewable sources. Currently, over 7% of Ireland’s energy now comes from renewables and this includes 20% of electricity demand.
Ireland has also set a challenging target of delivering 20% energy efficiency savings by 2020, with a 33% target for the public sector. This will reduce our CO2 emissions by approximately 5.7 million tonnes, saving some €1.6 billion per annum in avoided energy costs. The National Energy Efficiency Action Plan sets out in detail the actions that will be taken to achieve this goal.
Negotiations are now getting underway on the Climate and Energy Framework 2030 published by the European Commission in January of this year. The current EU proposals foresee a reduction of 40% Greenhouse Gas emissions and an increase in renewable energy to 27% across the EU. While Ireland is supportive of a high level of ambition, our contribution must be based on an approach that is equitable, cost efficient and technically feasible.
12. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the recent communications or reports his Department has had on the Dublin Array wind farm project; if in view of the postponement of the planned deal with the UK on the export of wind energy from Ireland and the very serious questions being asked about the environmental and social value of large scale wind farms geared towards export, if any decision to allow the Dublin array project to proceed should now also be put on hold. [24673/14]
View answerIt is important that Ireland's energy policy ensures that we sustainably capture the potential economic benefits of our abundant, indigenous, clean energy resources. Ireland’s position at the Atlantic edge of Europe provides an unparalleled offshore energy resource, with suitable conditions available for the development of the full range of current offshore renewable energy technologies. The offshore renewable energy sector has been consistently identified in recent years as a potential source of sustainable employment and economic growth, especially in those coastal communities where job creation is particularly challenging. The Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP), which I published earlier this year, identified export as the optimal path to market for offshore wind projects. Such export would require an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA). However, the economic, policy and regulatory complexities involved, and some key decisions required to be taken by the UK to facilitate any IGA, mean that post-2020 delivery is more realistic given project lead times. By way of context to this longer time horizon, earlier this year the European Commission published proposals for a 2030 Climate and Energy Framework. As we now look towards 2030, and consider Europe's trajectory for achieving a low carbon economy by 2050, opportunities to develop renewable energy technologies – such as offshore wind – and greater cross border trade in renewable energy, are likely to present over the coming years.
In addition, the Communication on Blue Energy, recently published by the European Commission, estimates the ocean energy sector could create tens of thousands of jobs over the medium to longer term. The Communication also identified the Atlantic seaboard as the area of highest potential for the development of ocean energy in the EU.
Finally, it should be noted that the progression of an individual project is, in the first instance, a matter between the project developer and the relevant planning authority having regard to the overarching policy and regulatory framework, including the findings of the Strategic Environmental Assessment which underpins the OREDP. Given that I have no planning function in this matter, I have not received any report or communication concerning the specific project mentioned by the Deputy.
13. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will clarify his Department's position with regard to the possible introduction of rod licences here; if he is considering any changes to the regulatory regime of the inland fishers here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24723/14]
View answerI have previously outlined my position on this matter in the House and clearly stated that a compulsory charge for anglers is not being introduced. My Department, working closely with IFI, is completing a comprehensive review of the current legislation dating back to 1959 to consolidate, update and amend existing legislation which governs the conservation, protection, management and development of the inland fisheries and sea angling resources.
This review presents a unique opportunity to create a new and better way to manage the resource. My aim is to obtain a wide and meaningful engagement with all stakeholders in an open and transparent process and I have organised and attended a series of public information and consultation meetings in this regard. It is my intention that further comprehensive stakeholder consultation will also take place prior to any finalisation of the proposed Inland Fisheries Bill.
14. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in view of serious questions being raised by communities and credible experts regarding the efficiency and environmental value of large-scale industrial wind farms, if he will undertake a root and branch review of energy policy, in particular, a cost-benefit analysis of all renewable energy sources, with a view to achieving a consensus and best outcome for the development of genuinely sustainable development of renewable energy resources, and involve all stakeholders in such a review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24672/14]
View answerI recently published the Green Paper on Energy Policy in Ireland to stimulate an informed debate on future energy policy. Set against the backdrop of the three energy pillars of ensuring security of supply, sustainability and competitiveness, and the further need to stimulate economic growth, the Paper focuses on a number of key themes. The six priority themes are: empowering energy citizens; markets, regulation and prices; planning and implementing essential energy infrastructure; ensuring a balanced and secure energy mix; putting the energy system on a sustainable pathway; and driving economic opportunity.The process includes a full public consultation and a targeted stakeholder consultation on the priority areas. The public consultation runs to 31 July and I would urge all stakeholders, including members of the public, to engage with the consultation. In analysing options for increased use of renewable energy as we approach 2020 and look to 2030 and beyond, we need to ensure our ambition is both sustainable, and economically and technically feasible. Analysis is being undertaken by my Department, the SEAI, EirGrid and the CER to further assess the costs and benefits associated with achieving 40% renewable electricity generation in 2020, compared to a scenario where renewable electricity remains at 2013 levels. This ongoing analysis will inform a report to be published shortly, and builds on existing work in this area. For example, the recently published SEAI report on Quantifying Ireland’s Fuel and CO2 Emissions Savings from Renewable Electricity in 2012 found that the value of the fossil fuels not consumed in the Republic of Ireland in 2012 as a result of renewable electricity generation is estimated at €245 million, with the value of avoided CO2 emissions being a further €15 million.
Separately, work is also ongoing within my Department to prepare a policy and development framework for renewable electricity. The scoping for the associated Strategic Environmental Assessment which will underpin the framework is currently being prepared, taking into account the Stage 1 consultation responses and will be published as part of the Stage 2 consultation in the near future. The policy and development framework will focus on potential projects of significant scale, and its preparation will involve three phases of public consultation in total.
15. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the EU regulations, directives and decisions Ireland is currently in breach of which are the responsibility of his Department; if there are any financial implications to these breaches; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24725/14]
View answerThe European Commission has raised issues in relation to how Ireland has addressed three Directives that are within the remit of my Department. In January 2014, the European Commission decided to refer the transposition of Directive 2009/28/EC on Renewable Energy to the European Court of Justice, proposing a daily fine of €25,447, to be effective from the date of the judgement of the Court. Ireland has transposed the bulk of this Directive and is committed to having the remaining provisions fully transposed as early as possible in 2014 and to have this fully completed well in advance of any hearing in the European Court, which should fully resolve the matter. In May 2014 the European Commission commenced proceedings relating to the transposition of Directive 2009/72/EC concerning common rules for the internal market in electricity, and proposed a daily of €20,358 and costs. In view of the complexity of the Directive, and the detailed correspondence engaged in to date, my Department has sought legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General and will await such a legal examination of the case stated, before deciding the next steps.
Directive 2009/31/EC provides for the regulation of the storage of carbon dioxide in geological structures and provides under Article 4.1 that any Member State may exercise the right not to allow the geological storage of CO2 in its territory. Ireland, and a number of EU member States exercised this option, but the Commission considered this as only partially satisfying the requirements of the directive. My Department, the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government and the Attorney General’s Office have prepared a further Statutory Instrument addressing the two outstanding articles and this is currently in the process of being signed off by both Ministers. This will ensure full transposition of the Directive.
16. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason the development of the pay-as-you-save retrofit scheme is moving so slowly; if he will seek moneys from the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund to boost retrofit uptake; the measures he proposes to halt the rapid decline in energy retrofit activity; his plans to expand the scheme to cover microgeneration grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24774/14]
View answerThe National Energy Efficiency Action Plan and the Programme for Government include a commitment to roll out a Better Energy Financing energy retrofit scheme (formerly known as Pay-As-You-Save) for domestic buildings. The key benefit to homeowners of the Better Energy Financing (BEF) mechanism is that it will allow them to secure upfront financing for energy efficiency upgrades to their homes. In designing the new mechanism, my Department worked with SEAI under the direction of a Project Board representing State and industry stakeholders. As well as accessing expert technical, legal and financial advice, detailed analysis of similar schemes in other jurisdictions was undertaken and a public consultation was also carried out. The SEAI will now be tasked with drawing up a detailed implementation plan for the design, development and execution of the Better Energy Financing scheme, which I anticipate will lead to a number of elements of the scheme being piloted later this year. There are a number of reasons for the revision of the Pay-As-You-Save model principally that homeowners are reluctant to take on new loan products when deleveraging is the common practice. This is in keeping with the international experience as is the additional difficulty in attracting applicants beyond the cohort of early adopters. Experience has also shown that the Pay-As-You-Save Model would not deliver savings adequate to meet the cost of Retrofit as originally anticipated. For these reasons government has maintained the grants-based incentive scheme that has seen over 261,000 homes retrofitted to date. I have already advised government that, in parallel with the new Better Energy Finance initiative, I intend to maintain the grants-based incentives for 2015.
My Department has responded to the decline in applications for domestic Retrofit by re-channelling funding to meet the surge in applications under the Better Energy Areas and Communities Scheme which provide grant funding for community based projects. The government has committed 57 million in Exchequer Capital Funding for the Better Energy Programme this year.
In keeping with government policy to target, where possible, exchequer moneys to upgrade homes most in need my colleague the Minister for Housing is overseeing the investment of a further €50m in upgrading the energy efficiency of Local Authority homes.The non-domestic sector is equally important in stimulating economic activity and realising energy savings. Last year I published the National Energy Services Framework which, when combined with the €70m National Energy Efficiency Fund, is equivalent to a Pay-As-You-Save methodology for the commercial and public sectors.
An analysis carried out by the SEAI for my Department of the potential of micro-generation technologies is informing consideration of a market support specifically for micro-generation.
17. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the policy of the Government in relation to mobile communications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24553/14]
View answerMobile communications is dependent on access to spectrum. The Government recognises that spectrum is a valuable natural national resource, which needs to be used as effectively and efficiently as possible for the good of the state - both economic and social – and the good of all its citizens. Policy in this area therefore aims to ensure that mobile communications contribute to sustainable economic growth, jobs, competitiveness and social inclusion. While I have overall responsibility for spectrum policy, the day-to-day management of radio spectrum and the application of terms and conditions attached to mobile licences is a statutory function of the Commission for Communications Regulation under the Communications Regulation Act, 2002 as amended. The National Broadband Plan, which was published in 2012 following extensive consultation with interested parties on topics including radio spectrum, contains specific proposals to review national policy on spectrum. The review is to be carried out on a consultative basis which I intend to initiate over the coming months. This review will deal with a broad range of issues relating to policy in the use of spectrum while respecting the role of ComReg as independent Regulator with responsibility for the management of spectrum on a day-to-day basis.
In terms of the mobile communications market, ComReg's 2012 multiband spectrum auction has released additional radio spectrum previously unavailable for mobile operators. This is expected to further improved the coverage and quality of mobile service throughout the country. Since the auction, three mobile operators have launched 4G high speed mobile broadband services and rollout is continuing. There has also been continued investment by all operators in enhancing and broadening 3G services and network improvements. These significant investments mark a clear indication of investor confidence in the mobile telecommunications market.
18. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which alternative energy generating requirements are being met; the degree to which EU deadlines or other international agreements are attainable over the next ten years; if economic growth calculations have been borne in mind in the context of any projections; if wind, wave or other alternatives are being considered; the extent to which a cost-benefit analysis has been undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24726/14]
View answerThe overarching objective of the Government's energy policy is to ensure secure and sustainable supplies of competitively priced energy to all consumers. Ireland is currently heavily reliant on imported fossil fuels to meet our energy needs. While it is acknowledged that fossil fuels will remain part of the energy mix for some time to come, progress is being made towards increasing the share of renewable energy in our generation portfolio. The 2009 EU Renewable Energy Directive set Ireland a legally binding target of meeting 16% of our energy requirements from renewable sources by 2020, to be achieved through 40% renewables in electricity, 12% in heat and 10% in transport. In 2012, renewable energy in electricity was 19.6%, in heat it was 5.2%, and in transport it was 3.8%. Analysis of options for increased use of renewable energy as we approach 2020 and beyond is ongoing, with a view to ensuring that our ambition is both sustainable, and economically and technically feasible. For example, analysis is being undertaken by my Department, the SEAI, EirGrid and the CER to further assess the costs and benefits associated with achieving 40% renewable electricity generation in 2020, compared to a scenario where renewable electricity remains at 2013 levels. This ongoing analysis will inform a report to be published shortly, and builds on existing work in this area such as the recently published SEAI report on Quantifying Ireland’s Fuel and CO2 Emissions Savings from Renewable Electricity in 2012, which found that the value of the fossil fuels not consumed in the Republic of Ireland in 2012 as a result of renewable electricity generation is estimated at €245 million, with the value of avoided CO2 emissions being a further €15 million. In terms renewable electricity generating options raised by the Deputy, to date wind energy has been the largest driver of growth in renewable electricity, contributing most towards the achievement of the 2020 target. Provisional figures for 2013 indicate that 16.4% of electricity demand was met by wind generation. At the end of 2013, the total amount of renewable generation connected to the grid was 2,300 MW. It is estimated that a total of around 4,000 MW of onshore renewable generation capacity will be required to allow Ireland to meet its 40% renewable electricity target. Currently, over 3,000 MW of renewable generation has taken up connection offers under the Gate 3 grid connection programme.
Our electricity system must be planned and developed so that it is adequate to meet future demand. Furthermore, energy infrastructure projects typically have long lead in times. Therefore, forecasts of economic growth are a critical factor in determining the on-going process of network planning and development carried out by EirGrid. EirGrid also uses this information to monitor the outlook for generation adequacy on a rolling ten year basis. In addition, the National Renewable Energy Action Plan, in which Ireland had to set out its trajectory for meeting its EU 2020 target, set out initial forecasts of demand for the years to 2020 to illustrate the amount of renewable generation that would be required to meet our EU target. In light of the economic downturn those figures have been revised in the second NREAP progress report produced by my Department earlier this year.
Looking out to the period beyond 2020, it is clear that there is potential to increase the diversity of our renewable generation portfolio. To this end, the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP), which I published in February, identifies the sustainable economic opportunity for Ireland in the period to 2030 of realising the potential of our indigenous offshore wind, wave and tidal energy resources. The Strategic Environmental Assessment carried out for the OREDP found that 4,500 MW of offshore wind and 1,500 MW of wave and tidal generation could be sustainably developed in Irish waters.
19. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his Department's role in tackling fuel poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24785/14]
View answerGovernment policy on energy affordability is founded on the fundamental principle that everyone should be able to afford to adequately light and heat their home. The Government’s affordable energy strategy “Warmer Homes” identified three key interlinking factors which determine whether a person falls into energy poverty namely energy costs, incomes and thermal efficiency. Our dependence upon imported fossil fuels limits our ability to control energy costs except through the promotion and development of real and active competition in the energy market. Customers now have a choice of energy supplier and can shop around to seek a deal that best suits their needs and circumstances. The Government will continue to ensure that those on low incomes are supported and treated with dignity through the household benefits package and specifically through the fuel allowance.
The most meaningful measure that can be taken is to continue to improve the thermal efficiency of people’s homes and thus insulate them from the effects of rising energy costs. The Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to low income households who meet defined eligibility criteria and who are vulnerable to energy poverty. The scheme is managed by the SEAI and delivered through a range of Community Based Organisations, augmented by a panel of private contractors in order to ensure national coverage. Recipients of the scheme do not receive grants but have measures installed free of charge. Since the commencement of the scheme in 2000, over 105,000 homes around the country have received energy efficiency measures under the Warmer Homes scheme, with a total spend of over €116 million. The Warmer Homes scheme is expected to upgrade another 12,000 households in energy poverty in 2014.
In addition, late last year I established a taskforce to examine the specific issue of consumer disconnections in the electricity and gas market. I am happy to say that this taskforce has developed a number of new measures that will have a significant impact in this area. The CER has published a consultation paper on debt management and has provided guidance that allows suppliers to make more Pay As You Go Meters available to customers. The Network companies are running a number of pilot programmes which should ensure more customers get the opportunity to avoid a disconnection and energy suppliers for their part, have launched a new code of practice, "The Energy Engage Code", which guarantees that no customer engaging with them will be cut off. The CER will be monitoring and reporting on disconnection statistics on a monthly basis.
On the launch of the Energy Green Paper I stated that I would hold a number of workshops on the paper. One of these workshops will be on empowering energy citizens and energy affordability will be an integral part of this workshop.
Finally, the Government intends to review the affordable energy strategy and I anticipate releasing a consultation paper this autumn to commence the process.
20. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there have been results from the seismic survey of Ireland's ocean floor; if these reveal any further detail regarding Ireland's oil and gas potential; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24786/14]
View answerConscious that the existence of quality data is key to encouraging exploration, last June my Department, in conjunction with exploration company Eni launched a major two year seismic acquisition programme to provide a regional grid of high quality seismic data over Ireland’s Atlantic frontier basins, particularly in the Southern Porcupine, Rockall and Hatton basins.
It is by far the largest regional seismic survey to be acquired in the Irish offshore and was designed to complement existing datasets and to fill data gaps that exist. The survey will add to the understanding of the petroleum potential of our frontier basins.
Over 10,000 km of full-fold seismic data was acquired in 2013. It is intended that the 2013 data will be made available for consideration by researchers and industry later this year. Acquisition for 2014 has recently commenced and the data acquired in 2014 will be made available in 2015.
21. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the planned roll-out of State-supported broadband infrastructure will include locations close to urban areas, such as Bushypark in Galway, which are near the upgraded infrastructure of companies such as Eircom but which are not serviced by the private operators, particularly in the context of employment and businesses dependent on reliable broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24719/14]
View answer23. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide an update on the mapping process being undertaken as part of the national broadband plan; the timeline for completion of same; the way he believes it will improve the services to many parts of County Donegal which remain without a satisfactory broadband service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24775/14]
View answer26. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects all citizens will have access to high-speed broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24772/14]
View answer30. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide an update on the roll-out of rural broadband in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24555/14]
View answer35. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the totally inadequate broadband connectivity service available in many parts of County Donegal; when the telecommunications infrastructure in the county will be upgraded to provide adequate service for both households and business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24781/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 21, 23, 26, 30 and 35 together.
The Government’s National Broadband Plan, which I published in August 2012, aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This will be achieved by providing:
- a policy and regulatory framework that assists in accelerating and incentivising commercial investment; and
- a State-led intervention for areas where it is not commercial for the market to invest.
Since publication of the Plan, investments by the commercial sector are underway and in some instances have been accelerated in both fixed line and wireless high speed broadband services. Commercial operators combined have either invested, or committed to invest, over €2 billion in their Irish networks, delivering high speed broadband to homes and businesses.
As a result of this accelerated investment the addressable area required by the State-led intervention has been reduced by 30% since the National Broadband Plan was launched. While these commercial developments are welcome the acceleration of investment is largely contained to cities and towns. Consequently, the speeds that are available in these areas are demonstrably better than those that are available in more rural areas.
On 25 April last, I signalled the Government's commitment to a major telecommunications network build-out to rural Ireland, with fibre as the foundation of its investment, as part of the State-led intervention under the National Broadband Plan. This commitment is a clear expression of Government’s determination to address the connectivity challenge in rural Ireland in a meaningful and sustainable way.
Central to the strategy will be a fibre build-out to locations in every county in the State identified as having no existing or planned enabling fibre network. It is intended that the fibre will be delivered directly to access points for homes and businesses, where service providers can utilise the fibre to provide high speed services to end users. The fibre build out will be part of an end-to-end strategy that will address all parts of Ireland that cannot access commercial high speed broadband services.
A comprehensive mapping exercise is underway in my Department which will identify those areas that will require a State intervention. I have published a county-by-county list of towns and villages which have already been identified for a fibre build-out. This list is available on my Department's website www.dcenr.gov.ie . Currently a total of 78 areas in County Donegal, 84 areas in County Galway and 48 areas in Co Limerick have been identified as requiring an intervention. This is an indicative list and is subject to the completion of the mapping exercise. Further locations may be identified as this process continues. Similarly, it may be determined that some locations on the list will be addressed by the commercial sector and will therefore not require State intervention. I expect that this mapping exercise will be concluded in the autumn.
I would point out that the EU Commission's guidelines on State aid for high speed broadband infrastructure preclude Member States from intervening in regions in which private investors have demonstrated plans to roll out infrastructure within the following three years.
In tandem with the completion of the mapping exercise, intensive design and planning work is ongoing in my Department with a view to producing a detailed end to end implementation strategy for the State led intervention. It is my intention to conduct a full public consultation on the outcome of the mapping process and the proposed implementation strategy. EU State aid clearance will also be required for the intervention once finalised. This will be followed by a detailed procurement process with a view to commencing construction of the fibre network and provision of services in identified areas as quickly as possible.
Government is determined to ensure that all citizens and businesses have access to quality and reliable broadband, as well as the skills to maximise the benefits such access brings. The proposed State led intervention acknowledges that broadband is the key infrastructure of the 21st century and its implementation will allow the full potential of a digitally enabled economy and society to be realised.
22. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide details of the engagement that his Department has had with representatives of salmon and trout anglers on the concerns that they have on the sustainability and future stock levels in inland waterways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24556/14]
View answerIreland manages salmon stocks generally on an individual river basis. Each river contains a genetically unique stock, which migrates to sea as juveniles and returns to the same river in adulthood to spawn. The conservation imperative means that exploitation of salmon of each river is only permitted where the independent Standing Scientific Committee for salmon determine that the stock in that river is above its conservation limit. This Committee comprises Scientists from the Marine Institute, Inland Fisheries Ireland, ESB, the Loughs Agency, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Bio-Sciences Institute (AFBI) Northern Ireland and Universities.
In accordance with the Inland Fisheries Act, 2010 and based on the independent advice of the Scientific Committee as regards the status of each individual river stock, and management advice from IFI, a statutory 30 day public consultation process is conducted for the draft Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations each year in advance of the forthcoming season.
This consultation process commences mid-November and ends in mid-December each year. The draft regulations are open for public inspection and are accessible on my Department’s website. Submissions and observations on proposals within the draft regulations may be made at any time during the consultation period to my Department. Each submission is examined and considered as part of the process. A comprehensive response is issued to each party when the public consultation period ends.
For those rivers deemed by the Independent Scientific Committee to be above their conservation limit and therefore to have an exploitable surplus of stock, consultation within District Committees, including representatives of the angling sector and commercial fishermen, inputs into how that surplus is to be divided among the various stakeholders.
In addition to the statutory public consultation, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) conducts public consultations on a regular basis when proposing to implement bye-laws on a regional basis. These consultations are advertised on IFI’s website and submissions from all interested parties are invited.
IFI, my Department and I, as Minister, also frequently meet with stakeholders countrywide to discuss issues raised by representative stakeholders including matters of sustainability and conservation of fish stocks.
24. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to develop a national bioenergy strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24729/14]
View answer25. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to review the REFIT 3 criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24728/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 25 together.
My Department is currently in the process of finalising a national bioenergy strategy. The strategy will set out the actions required to optimise the contribution that a sustainable biomass sector can make to the achievement of the 2020 renewable energy target for Ireland.
Analysis conducted has shown that additional measures in the heat sector represent the most cost effective means of meeting a number of different policy goals. It is intended, therefore, subject to Government approval, that the strategy will incorporate targeted and cost effective measures to stimulate demand for biomass-fuelled heat.
The strategy will also reiterate support for the significant policies already in place. The Biofuels Obligation Scheme will continue to be the primary means through which Ireland will meet its renewable transport target, and REFIT 3 will continue to support the generation of electricity and combined heat and power from biomass until 2030.
All support schemes which are designed to run for a significant length of time are kept under continual review to take account of the evolving nature of the wider energy sector and to ensure that the objectives of the scheme, and how it operates, remain aligned with policy objectives. In this regard, aspects of the terms and conditions of REFIT 3 as they relate to the support for combined heat and power are currently being reviewed to ensure the scheme's objectives can be achieved.
27. Deputy Ruth M. Coppinger asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made since he took office in terms of delivering the offshore wind resource to users here; and the progress made by the European Union and his Department in providing the transmission capacity, upgrading of grid and provision of interconnectors to export the electricity to Europe. [24550/14]
View answer28. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will report on the technological readiness level of the indigenous wave energy developers who have received funding from Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland; the percentage of State funding of ocean energy which has been received by these Irish developers compared to the percentage of the funding provided to third level research institutions; if any of the technologies is regarded as having potential; and the estimated costs of bringing these technologies to such a technological readiness level as to be acceptable for inclusion in the WestWave project. [24551/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 28 together.
As set out in the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan, which I published earlier this year, Ireland's marine energy resources - in particular wind and wave - are among the very best in the EU. However, as also highlighted in the OREDP, a route to market is critical for the development of each of the technologies in this sector. It has been established that Ireland has sufficient onshore renewable energy resources to allow us to meet our 2020 target of meeting 40% of electricity demand from renewable generation. Therefore, the route to market identified for offshore wind is that of export. Intensive discussions took place over the last year with the UK to establish if it would be possible to export renewable energy, both onshore and offshore, in order to allow the UK meet its 2020 target. While this work established that, with the appropriate policy and regulatory framework, renewable energy trading could deliver benefits to both Ireland and the UK, the complexities involved and the decisions yet to be taken by the UK, make post 2020 delivery more realistic given project lead times. Nevertheless, given the move towards an Internal Market for Energy, I am of the view that trade in renewable electricity is virtually inevitable post 2020.
In common with the state of play internationally, the ocean energy sector in Ireland is at the pre-commercial stage. To support developers in bringing their devices from prototype to full scale commercial viability, requires a range of policies. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provides support to developers in a number of ways from its ocean energy development budget of €6.5 million for 2014. Initial device development and testing is supported through the Prototype Fund. Developers must satisfy a range of technical criteria to indicate potential viability in order to receive funding. Funding has also been allocated to SEAI for the development of the Atlantic Marine Energy Test Site (AMETS) off County Mayo. From 2016, this facility will provide a grid connected test site with some of the most demanding conditions for wave energy in the world. Currently SEAI and the Marine Institute provide quarter size test facilities off the Galway coast.
The Irish Maritime and Energy Research Centre (IMERC) provides initial device testing facilities and critical research and development capacity. My Department is contributing €3 million in co-funding between 2013 and 2016. In total, my Department has allocated at total of €26.3 million for ocean energy in the period 2013 to 2016. This funding, which will benefit from increased cross government coordination through the implementation of the OREDP, is vital if the ocean energy sector is to reach the array demonstration stage envisaged by projects such as Westwave. The fact that this level of funding has been retained for ocean energy despite the budgetary constraints of recent years indicates the level of Government commitment to realising the potential of our abundant, indigenous, offshore energy resources.
29. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has made any further contact with his British counterpart with regard to the export of energy from Ireland to the UK; if he is considering supporting an interconnector between Ireland and France; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24722/14]
View answerFollowing extensive engagement between my Department and the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change over a sixteen month period following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Energy Sector in January 2013, it is clear that given the economic, policy and regulatory complexities involved, and the key decisions yet to be taken by the UK, delivery of the envisaged wind energy export project is not now a realistic proposition. I conveyed this view to my British counterpart in April. There is ongoing contact between my Department and the Department of Energy and Climate Change on a range of energy issues, including in the context of the British Irish Council. These contacts will afford both parties to explore longer term trading opportunities that will arise post 2020 in the context of a European Internal Energy Market and the need for greater energy integration. In terms of supporting interconnection, it is EU policy is to encourage greater integration and interconnectivity between Member States. Enhanced security of supply, increased competitiveness, and the ability to integrate greater quantities of variable renewable generation resources are some of the potential benefits of further interconnection between the transmission grids of Ireland, Great Britain and mainland Europe. EirGrid is the Transmission System Operator (TSO) for the electricity transmission system in Ireland. The functions of the TSO include the operation of a safe, secure, reliable, economical and efficient electricity transmission system, and to explore and develop opportunities for interconnection of its system with other systems, with a view to ensuring that all reasonable demands for electricity are met and having due regard for the environment. I understand from EirGrid that a number of studies are exploring different aspects of the feasibility of additional interconnection and these will feed into any decisions on future interconnection investment.
31. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of oil and gas drilling licences currently in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24544/14]
View answerIn the addition to the three Petroleum Leases currently held, the following table outlines the Petroleum Authorisations currently extant in Ireland:
|
Authorisation Type |
Number in Operation |
|
Exploration Licence |
30 |
|
Licensing Option |
15 |
|
Petroleum Prospecting Licence |
12 |
|
Total |
57 |
Exploration is ongoing under these authorisations.
32. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps taken to protect wild salmon from sea lice; the policy of his Department regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24554/14]
View answerThe licensing of aquaculture activity, including salmon farming, and the operation of national protocols for control of sea-lice are a matter for the Department of Agriculture Food and Marine (DAFM). Both My Department and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) have consistently expressed support for the development of aquaculture which is sustainable and which complies with national and International environmental requirements, particularly the EU Habitats Directive There is wide awareness of the potential major negative impact of sea-lice infected farmed salmon on wild salmonid (salmon and sea-trout) stocks, which has also been published in reputable international science journals.This evidence is of serious concern to both my Department and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), who provide scientific advice to my Department on a statutory basis. The potential for sea-lice infestation of wild salmon from Aquaculture installations situated near the estuaries of salmon rivers has been the subject of a wide range of peer reviewed and published scientific papers.
Of paramount concern for my Department and IFI is the protection of wild stocks and bringing sea-lice infestation on salmon farms under control particularly prior to and during the critical spring migration season when migrating sea trout and juvenile salmon pass in close proximity to farmed salmon installations.
The Department and IFI have consistently advised that protecting these vulnerable stocks requires the application of real and effective sanctions on those sites which are found to be in breach of the sea-lice regime (and its protocols).
My Department receives the monthly sea-lice reports which are compiled for DAFM by the Marine Institute. These reports should provide the basis for possible DAFM actions where its pest protocols are breached and on which my Department regularly seeks intervention.
33. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way he foresees the energy sector compensating for the expansion of agriculture regarding our climate change obligations; his views on whether this is possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24770/14]
View answer37. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he accepts the urgent need to reduce methane emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24543/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 33 and 37 together.
Climate and energy policies span a number of complex and interlinked policy areas and the achievement of climate change objectives requires contributions from a range of sectors, including energy, agriculture, transport and the built environment.
The 2009 EU Renewable Energy Directive set Ireland a legally binding target of meeting 16% of our energy requirements from renewable sources by 2020. To achieve this, Ireland is committed to meeting 40% of electricity demand, and 10% and 12% respectively of power for transport and heat, from renewable sources.
The EU Commission published its 2030 Climate and Energy Package in January this year. Work is underway on a cross-Departmental basis to establish the appropriate national position for Ireland in relation to greenhouse gas reduction and renewable energy targets in the context of an overall level of ambition set by the Commission for a 40% greenhouse gas reduction and 27% renewable energy target at EU level for 2030. The contribution of the various sectors to meeting the national targets will be considered as part of developing a national position over the coming months.
34. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he plans to update the fiscal and licensing regime of Ireland’s oil and gas industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24721/14]
View answerOn 9 May 2012 the former Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Natural Resources and Agriculture published its Report on Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration. The Report contained a number of recommendations in respect of the fiscal and regulatory framework applying to oil and gas exploration in Ireland.At my request the Report was debated in Seanad Éireann and in Dáil Éireann with the debate concluding on 9 July 2013. During the course of the Dáil debate I stated my intention to seek further independent expert advice on the “fitness-for-purpose” of Ireland’s fiscal terms, such expert advice to focus on what level of fiscal gain is achievable for the State and its citizens and, equally important, on the mechanisms best suited to produce such a gain.
Following a public procurement process, my Department appointed Wood Mackenzie in March of this year to provide expert advice on the fitness for purpose of Ireland's fiscal terms for oil and gas exploration, development and production.
Wood Mackenzie recently submitted their final report to my Department. The report and the recommendations contained therein are currently under consideration.
36. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will outline any job creation proposals in the energy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24542/14]
View answerThe Green Paper on Energy Policy in Ireland which I launched on 12 May highlights the potential of the energy sector to create jobs, attract investment, facilitate research and development, and enhance economic growth. Under the 2014 Action Plan for Jobs, provision is made for €57 million in Exchequer supports to further stimulate energy-saving activity in the residential sector. This is estimated to sustain approximately 3,500 jobs. A further €35 million is being invested in the creation of an Energy Efficiency Fund to invest in appropriate projects in the commercial and public sectors. SEAI estimates that the renewable and sustainable energy sector could create at least 30,000 jobs by 2020. As I have stated previously, all relevant State agencies, particularly in the enterprise area, will have to co-ordinate their activities to ensure Ireland maximises this job creation potential. This opportunity has already been identified by the IDA and Enterprise Ireland in their clean technology growth strategies. SEAI is currently working with Enterprise Ireland, the IDA and Forfás to examine what sectors and sub-sectors in the supply chains of energy efficiency and renewable energy offer the most opportunities for Irish firms in order to inform strategies to maximise job creation. Ireland is well positioned to leverage employment opportunities in the sector with our strong capabilities in key areas such as engineering and ICT; our research, development and demonstration base; our favourable corporate tax rate, and a well-educated, adaptable workforce.
In addition, our onshore and offshore renewable resources are significantly greater than the national energy requirement. In the context of a European Internal Market and greater integration, these resources represent an important energy trading opportunity in the post 2020 period.
I expect a full discussion on these matters as part of the current public consultation process on the Green Paper.
38. Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress since assuming office of broadband capacity and speed to the main towns of west Cork; the rural areas of west Cork and those more than 5 km from a digital exchange; the developments to the metropolitan area networks, MANs; the progress he expects to achieve over the next two years on the broadband network in west Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24548/14]
View answerIreland’s telecommunications market has been fully liberalised since 1999 in accordance with the requirements of binding EU Directives. The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services, is, in the first instance, a matter for commercial services providers. These service providers operate in a competitive commercial market reporting to the independent market regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). ComReg publishes data on customer access to high speed broadband at the national level only. This data shows that between 2011 and the end of 2013 the proportion of broadband customers accessing marketed speeds of 30 Mbps or more increased from 3% to 35%. It also indicates that the proportion of customers contracted at speeds of 2 Mbps or less reduced from 11% to 5%. ComReg does not publish any similar material by a county or regional basis. The Government’s National Broadband Plan, which I published in August 2012, aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This will be achieved by providing:
- a policy and regulatory framework that assists in accelerating and incentivising commercial investment; and
- a State-led intervention for areas where it is not commercial for the market to invest.
Since publication of the Plan, investments by the commercial sector are underway and in some instances have been accelerated in both fixed line and wireless high speed broadband services. Commercial operators combined have either invested, or committed to invest, over €2 billion in their Irish networks, delivering high speed broadband to homes and businesses.
As a result of this accelerated investment the addressable area required by the State-led intervention has been reduced by 30% since the National Broadband Plan was launched. While the commercial developments are welcome the acceleration of investment is largely contained to cities and towns. Consequently, the speeds that are available in these areas are demonstrably better than those that are available in more rural areas.
On 25 April last, I signalled the Government's commitment to a major telecommunications network build-out to rural Ireland, with fibre as the foundation of its investment, as part of the State led intervention under the National Broadband Plan. This commitment is a clear expression of Government’s determination to address the connectivity challenge in rural Ireland in a meaningful and sustainable way.
Central to the strategy will be a fibre build-out to locations in every county in the State identified as having no existing or planned enabling fibre network. It is intended that the fibre will be delivered directly to access points for homes and businesses, where service providers can utilise the fibre to provide high speed services to end users. The fibre build out will be part of an end-to-end strategy that will address all parts of Ireland that cannot access commercial high speed broadband services.
A comprehensive mapping exercise is underway in my Department which will identify those areas that will require a State intervention. I have published a county-by-county list of towns and villages which have already been identified for a fibre build-out. This list is available on my Department's website www.dcenr.gov.ie. Currently, a total of 108 areas in County Cork have been identified as requiring an intervention. This is an indicative list and is subject to the completion of the mapping exercise. Further locations may be identified as this process continues. Similarly, it may be determined that some locations on the list will be addressed by the commercial sector and will therefore not require State intervention. I expect that this mapping exercise will be concluded in the autumn.
I would point out that the EU Commission’s guidelines on State aid for high speed broadband infrastructure preclude Member States from intervening in regions in which private investors have demonstrated plans to roll out their own infrastructure within the following three years. In this regard, I understand that at least one network operator has published a programme to roll out 103 fibre-based broadband networks in County Cork by July 2016.
In tandem with the completion of the mapping exercise, intensive design and planning work is ongoing in my Department with a view to producing a detailed end to end implementation strategy for the State led intervention. It is my intention to conduct a full public consultation on the outcome of the mapping process and the proposed implementation strategy. EU State aid clearance will also be required for the intervention once finalised. This will be followed by a detailed procurement process with a view to commencing construction of the fibre network and provision of services in identified areas as quickly as possible
With regard to the Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), I am pleased to advise that of the four MANs in West Cork, Bantry, Dunmanway and Skibbereen are in operation and are being used by a number of telecommunications operators, providing services to businesses in those areas. The fourth MAN, Kinsale, was recently completed and is expected to be in operation in the next few weeks.
I fully share the concerns of local representatives about the quality of broadband in rural areas. It is my intention to ensure that rural Ireland enjoys similar opportunities to urban areas by delivering an end-to end market intervention with fibre as a core component. In committing to a fibre build-out at the heart of this strategy, Government is determined to ensure that all citizens and businesses in the State have access to quality and reliable broadband.
39. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will keep Ireland fracking free; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24546/14]
View answerIn November of last year the EPA launched a call for tenders, with the selection process to conclude shortly, to appoint the relevant expertise to conduct detailed research into the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing on the environment.
The key questions, that this research programme needs to answer are:
- Can unconventional gas exploration and extraction projects and operations be carried out in the island of Ireland whilst also protecting the environment and human health? and
- What is ‘best environmental practice’ in relation to such projects and operations?
In addressing these questions, I understand that the research programme will include identification and a detailed examination of potential impacts on the environment and human health, as well as potential successful mitigation measures to counteract the impacts of such projects and operations that have come to the fore worldwide, using published reports and other sources. It is also expected that findings will be accompanied by reference to experiences in other countries.
I would like to confirm that no applications have been made to my Department to date proposing the use of hydraulic fracturing in exploration drilling. Furthermore, until there has been time to consider the findings of the EPA research, the use of this technology in Ireland will not be authorised.
40. Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps Ireland is taking regarding the appointment of a person (details supplied), as President of the United Nations General Assembly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24998/14]
View answerThe post of President of the UN General Assembly rotates on a regional basis. Each year, one of the regional groups nominates an individual as President of the General Assembly, who is then appointed by acclamation [i.e. without a formal voting process] for a one-year term. Mr. Kutesa is the sole candidate this year for nomination to the post. The anti-homosexuality law clearly conflicts with Uganda’s binding international obligations to uphold human rights. It is a threat to Uganda’s gay community and an affront to all those who value tolerance, respect and dignity of all people. Ireland and our partners in the European Union, as well as many other States, have made our strong opposition to the Ugandan Government’s policy clear in contacts with the Ugandan government. Indeed, the Minister of State for Trade and Development met with representatives of human rights groups working on LGBTI issues in Uganda in December 2013 and assured them of Ireland’s continued support for their human rights. The role of the President of the UN General Assembly is simply to preside over the sessions of the General Assembly and manage its business. He/she has no competence in relation to individual policy issues and does not influence the work of the UN or its agencies in day to day operations. Furthermore, the President of the General Assembly does not chair any Committee of the General Assembly, for example the Third Committee which handles human rights issues. This responsibility rests with individual member States. If any effort were made to advance an unacceptable human rights agenda, this would be vigorously contested by Ireland and most other UN member States.
Ireland remains committed to ensuring that the people of Uganda do not suffer violence or discrimination on the grounds of their sexual orientation. Ireland will continue to play a positive role in support of human rights and equality at every opportunity, be it in Uganda, at the United Nations, or elsewhere.
