Jim Higgins
Ceist:16 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Energy when he will be in a position to produce a comprehensive policy statement on energy conservation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Energy Conservation.
I have established an Energy Conservation and Efficiency Advisory Group to identify the potential for reducing energy demand levels through conservation measures and to identify the sectors for priority action. I expect to have an interim report from this group by the end of this year and I will consider the group's final report as a basis for formulation of future energy conservation strategy.
I welcome the Minister's conversion to the need to have a proper conservation plan, and I wish him success in it. Would the Minister now revise the National Development Plan which shows a complete disregard for the issue of energy efficiency as an ingredient in preparing for 1992, which is a serious defect in that programme?
I completely reject the Deputy's assertion that I have been converted to conservation. My party have produced extensive policy statements with regard to the need for energy conservation. As Minister for Energy——
When the Minister was in opposition.
As Minister for Energy I took a number of important steps to implement details of a policy programme and I have set up for the first time a special review committee which consists of people eminently qualified in this area. They will be giving me an interim report before Christmas and a substantial report later on. I have not been dilatory in this matter and I have not waited for this body to be set up before doing anything. As the Deputy knows from previous replies and public statements, I have introduced a series of measures in the energy conservation area. It is a matter of great importance nationally to the economy and the environment. I am anxious to see major steps being taken in this area, because very substantial cash savings can be made through more efficient use of energy.
It is a pity the Minister waited until after the Iraqi crisis.
Question No. 17.
I am sorry, a Cheann Comhairle, but I have to keep the record right. I did not wait until after the Iraqi crisis. I had the establishment of this committee well in train long before Saddam Hussein went on his march.
(Interruptions.)
I am pleased to hear the Minister's statement that he regards energy conservation as being extremely important. I put it to the Minister that radical measures are needed and I hope the Minister will agree that we need to think in terms of a 40 per cent to 50 per cent reduction in energy needs in this country over the next 15 years. Will the Minister comment on that?
My comment to Deputy Garland is that the Deputy need not fear, because I am a member of the real green party in this country.
(Interruptions.)