Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2004
134 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the serious threat to the viability of growers caused by the sharp increase by over 30% in recent months in the price of gas; and if he will have an urgent meeting with the glasshouse growers committee of the Irish Farmers' Association to address this issue. [5068/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commissioner for Energy Regulation is responsible for the regulation of the Irish natural gas market. The liberalisation of this market is proceeding on a phased basis with a view to full market opening by 2005.
I am aware that the deregulation of this market has led to price increases and that this has had an impact on glasshouse growers as a significant portion of their costs comprise energy costs. In this regard my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Treacy, met the glasshouse growers committee of the IFA last October. My officials are available to meet the committee again and to consider any points which it wishes to raise.
