Vol. 415 No. 1
257 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Energy if he will outline the implications of the report of the Industrial Policy Review Group for the Bord na Móna operations in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The recently published report of the Industrial Policy Review Group suggested that the price of milled peat to the ESB should be lowered.
I am conscious that at current energy prices, the price of milled peat is higher than comparative costs for other fuels. Bord na Móna is in the process of implementing a major restructuring programme with a view to improving efficiency and reducing costs. Achievement of increased profitability should over time provide a basis for reducing the cost penalty associated with generating electricity from peat.
The review group also suggested that a task force be established to follow up on the implementation of the recommendations made in the report. The Government has decided to establish a committee to undertake this task and my Department and I will co-operate fully with this committee. The implications of the report for all areas under the aegis of my Department will be considered in that context.
