Tuesday, 28 Apr 2015

Written Answers Nos. 1 - 32

Wind Energy Guidelines

Ceisteanna (10)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

10. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans or proposals with respect to the review of guidelines in respect of wind farms; if it is intended to proceed with a review at an early date; the extent to which such a review will affect existing or proposed developments; the targets, revised or otherwise, for alternative energy production in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16215/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Work is being advanced by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, in conjunction with my Department and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, on the review of the 2006 Wind Energy Guidelines. It is proposed to update certain sections of the existing guidelines. There will also be a number of technical appendices developed to assist planning authorities in relation to noise assessment, monitoring and the setting of planning conditions. Draft guidelines were published in December 2013 for public consultation. Submissions were received from around 7,500 organisations and members of the public during the public consultation period. Following consideration of the submissions, the revisions to the guidelines will be finalised and issued to planning authorities under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended.

Ireland currently has approximately 2,600MW of renewable electricity generation of which 2,200MW is wind generation. It is estimated that between 3,500MW and 4,000MW of renewable electricity generation will be required to achieve the target of 40% renewable electricity by 2020. Given that we already have 2,600MW in place, we will need between approximately 1000MW and 1500MW additional generation to meet our 2020 target.

My Department is preparing a Renewable Electricity Policy and Development Framework, which is to be underpinned by a Strategic Environmental Assessment and an Appropriate Assessment. The proposed Framework will be completed in 2015, and will be a high level strategic policy, which is intended for the guidance of persons seeking development consent primarily in relation to large scale renewable electricity projects, as well as for the guidance of planning authorities, statutory authorities and the public. The next stage of public consultation will commence in the coming weeks with the publication of the Draft Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Report.

Fisheries Protection

Ceisteanna (11)

John Browne

Ceist:

11. Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he plans to carry out a review of the ban on eel fishing, as promised when the closure of the fishery took place in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16196/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Ireland's Eel Management Plan was accepted by the EU in 2009 under the EU Eel regulation 1100/2007. This plan included a measure to close commercial and recreational fisheries for eels. There are reporting obligations under the Regulation and Ireland’s first report was submitted in June 2012 and the second report is due by June 2015.

In that context a review of measures within Ireland’s Eel Management Plan, including the cessation of fishing, has already been undertaken in 2012. This review including a comprehensive scientific assessment of eel stocks nationally by the statutorily independent Standing Scientific Committee on Eels. The 2012 review also included a robust public consultation process during which many issues were raised and considered. Full details of the outputs of the public consultation are available on the Inland Fisheries Ireland web site. Similar reviews were carried out across EU Member States as the eel stock has radically declined throughout Europe.

A further similar review of the measures in Ireland’s Eel Management Plan will begin in the coming weeks with a view to submitting the required report to the EU by the end of June 2015. An opportunity for further consultation with, and submissions from, stakeholders will be advanced during that process.

Questions Nos. 12 and 13 answered orally.

Postal Services

Ceisteanna (14)

Michael Colreavy

Ceist:

14. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when a report will be forthcoming from the post office business review group. [16294/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

In recognition of the challenges facing the post office network, I established the Post Office Network Business Development Group in January this year to explore potential commercial opportunities for post offices. The Terms of Reference for the Group are to:

- examine the potential from existing and new Government and commercial business that could be transacted through the post office network;

- identify the new business opportunities for the post office network, taking account of international experience;

- engage as necessary with the public sector, commercial bodies and other interested parties in pursuit of the above objectives;

- prepare an interim and final report for the Minister in accordance with an agreed timetable

The Group has met on three occasions, with a forthcoming meeting scheduled for 30 April. While deliberations are ongoing, a number of work-streams have been identified and are being actively pursued. I anticipate that the interim report, which is due shortly, will provide an overview of progress to date and an indication of future activities. I expect the final report of the Group later this year.

Broadband Service Provision

Ceisteanna (15)

Mattie McGrath

Ceist:

15. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the time frame for the roll-out of rural broadband; the funding that will be provided for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16200/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The National Broadband Plan aims to ensure that every citizen and business, regardless of location, has access to a high quality, high speed broadband service. This will be achieved through a combination of commercial investments and a State led intervention in areas where commercial services will not be provided.

The commercial telecommunications sector is currently investing approximately €2.5 billion in network upgrades and enhanced services with approximately 1.6 million of the 2.3 million premises in Ireland expected to have access to commercial high speed broadband services over the next two years. These very significant investments represent a step-change in the quality of broadband services available.

The proposed State intervention under the NBP represents a very significant capital investment project for the State. I have undertaken to complete a detailed intervention strategy that will be published for public consultaiton in July. Costs associated with the Government’s intervention are an important part of the detailed work that is being undertaken to finalise the strategy. Ultimately however, the outcome of the tender process will determine the final cost of the intervention.

The process is complex and will include close examination of issues such as:

- The appropriate ownership model for the infrastructure;

- Whether there will there be a single contractor or multiple contractors to build the infrastructure;

- The potential cost of the intervention;

- Funding options;

- The appropriate duration of the contract; and

- How the service quality is to be measured and assured.

Because a very competitive procurement process is anticipated, it would be neither advisable nor appropriate to speculate about potential costs at this stage and it is preferable to allow the market players bid what they deem an appropriate price, taking account of the Government's decisions on the key issues, such as those I have already outlined.

The next steps in this process will see a further public consultation on the detailed intervention strategy in the middle of this year. A detailed procurement process will be undertaken in order to select a potential bidder or bidders towards the end of the year and in this regard the tender will be designed in a way that maximise efficiencies and keeps the cost to taxpayers as low as possible. It is expected that the physical build of this network will commence from 2016.

This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in Ireland.

Broadband Service Expenditure

Ceisteanna (16)

Michael Colreavy

Ceist:

16. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the estimated cost for the broadband mapping process, and the projected estimated cost of the fibre roll-out under the national broadband plan. [16290/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The proposed State intervention under the National Broadband Plan represents a very significant capital investment project for the State. I have undertaken to complete a detailed intervention strategy that will be submitted to Government in the middle of this year. Costs associated with the Government’s intervention are an important part of the detailed work that is being undertaken to finalise the strategy. Ultimately however, the outcome of the tender process will determine the final cost of the intervention.

The process is complex and will include close examination of issues such as:

- The appropriate ownership model for the infrastructure;

- Whether there will there be a single contractor or multiple contractors to build the infrastructure;

- The potential cost of the intervention;

- Funding options;

- The appropriate duration of the contract; and

- How the service quality is to be measured and assured.

Because a very competitive procurement process is anticipated, it would be neither advisable nor appropriate to speculate about potential costs at this stage and it is preferable to allow the market players bid what they deem an appropriate price, taking account of the Government's decisions on the key issues, such as those I have already outlined.

The next steps in this process will see a further public consultation on the detailed intervention strategy in mid-2015. A detailed procurement process will be undertaken in order to select a potential bidder or bidders towards the end of 2015 and in this regard the tender will be designed in a way that maximise efficiencies and keeps the cost to taxpayers as low as possible. It is expected that the physical build of this network will commence from 2016.

The mapping process is one aspect of the very detailed intervention strategy under the National Broadband Plan and was undertaken by my own Department and its advisers, in consultation with industry.

This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in Ireland.

Alternative Energy Projects

Ceisteanna (17)

Clare Daly

Ceist:

17. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the wave energy developers who had been accepted to participate in the west wave project in 2013, and in each case the type of wave energy converter and its technical readiness level; if he will report on their progress in 2015; the current participants; the type of wave energy convertor and technical readiness level; and if he will report targets to 2020. [16287/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The WestWave project is a collaborative ocean energy project led by the ESB with the objective of accelerating the development of the ocean energy sector in Ireland. ESB is working with a number of wave energy project developers to realise this 5MW project off the coast of Clare, and the details in regard to the developers, the procurement process and specific technologies involved are matters for ESB.

I am advised that the ESB objective is that the WestWave project would be operational by 2020. This is a highly innovative project and it is imperative that the technical solution chosen would be appropriate for the energetic wave conditions on the west coast of Ireland.

Wave and tidal energy is still at the research, development and demonstration stage globally, and while promising experimental devices have been developed, much more research, development and demonstration is required to bring wave energy technology to commercial viability.

Policy action across a range of areas is required to support developers in bringing ocean energy devices from prototype to full scale commerciality. This action is being taken in the context of the implementation of the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan published last year, which sets out Government policy in relation to the sustainable development of Ireland’s abundant offshore renewable energy resources.

Exchequer support for ocean research, development and demonstration has been provided to the sector in recent years and is being increased under the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan. In total, my Department has allocated €26.3 million for ocean energy for the period 2013 to 2016. This supports, inter alia, the Prototype Development Fund operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland which provides grant aid for the development of prototype ocean energy devices.

Postal Services

Ceisteanna (18)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

18. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which he expects An Post to play a role in the communications sector in the future, with particular reference to the potential utilisation of the nationwide network of post offices and sub-post offices, combined with counter services, which can beneficially provide a wide range of compatible services throughout urban and rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16216/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Postal services play an important communications role, serving the needs of domestic and business customers alike. However, the postal sector is undergoing systemic change with migration towards electronic communications resulting in significant core mail volume declines.

It is Government policy that An Post remains a strong and viable company, in a position to provide a high quality postal service and maintain a nationwide customer focussed network of post offices in the community.

The post office network has many strengths and can play an important role in the communications sector into the future. For example, it has the largest retail network in the country and was fully computerised some years ago. As a result, it can fill a vital role in the nationwide provision of over-the-counter services to the public, state services and other financial and commercial transactions.

In recognition of the changing commercial environment, I established the Post Office Network Business Development Group in January of this year to examine the potential from existing and new Government business and commercial business that could be transacted through the post office network as well as identifying the new business opportunities for the network.

I look forward to the findings of the Group later this year which, I believe, will play a significant part in the future of An Post and the maintenance of the post office network.

I envisage a strong future for the post office network by using its existing strengths to remain a significant player in the provision of government, financial and other services. It has been long standing policy that An Post remains in a position to compete in a liberalised market and continue to provide wide ranging services to urban and rural communities.

Broadband Service Provision

Ceisteanna (19)

Charlie McConalogue

Ceist:

19. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide a progress update with regard to the Government's commitment to provide fibre broadband to every house and business in County Donegal; the deadline for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16201/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The National Broadband Plan aims to ensure that every citizen and business, regardless of location, has access to a high quality, high speed broadband service. This will be achieved through a combination of commercial investments and a State led intervention in areas where commercial services will not be provided.

The commercial telecommunications sector is currently investing approximately €2.5 billion in network upgrades and enhanced services with approximately 1.6 million of the 2.3 million premises in Ireland expected to have access to commercial high speed broadband services over the next two years. These very significant investments represent a step-change in the quality of broadband services available.

Last November I published a national high speed coverage map for 2016. This map is available at www.broadband.gov.ie. The map shows Ireland with two colours, BLUE and AMBER.

The areas marked BLUE represent those areas where commercial providers plan to deliver high speed broadband services by end 2016.

The AMBER area on the map shows the target areas for the State intervention. All premises within the AMBER areas will be included in the State's intervention.

The website also provides information on a county by county basis with a breakdown of coverage across the townlands in every county in Ireland including Co Donegal.

48% of premises in Co. Donegal will have access to commercial high speed broadband services by the end of 2016. The remaining 52% consisting of some just over 52,000 premises will fall within the proposed State led intervention under the National Broadband Plan.

Intensive design and planning work is underway in my Department to produce a detailed intervention strategy for the AMBER area. Following a public consultation process on the draft Intervention Strategy this summer, I hope to move to formal procurement phase towards the end of this year in order to select a preferred bidder or bidders. In accordance with EU State Aid guidelines, the procurement process will be technology neutral.

I anticipate that the first homes and businesses will be connected in 2016 and connections will continue thereafter, with the intention of having all premises connected within a 5 year period.

This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in Ireland.

Hydraulic Fracturing Policy

Ceisteanna (20)

Seán Kyne

Ceist:

20. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide an update on the study under way on hydraulic fracturing; if he will re-affirm that no policy decisions on licensing will be considered until the study is complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16214/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Alex White)

As has been outlined to this House on a number of occasions, no decision will be made on any application proposing the use of hydraulic fracturing, as part of an unconventional gas exploration or extraction project, until there has been time to consider the outcome of a major research programme, directed at examining the potential environmental and human health impacts of hydraulic fracturing, which has been commissioned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The key questions that this research programme which is to be carried out over a minimum period of two years is required to answer are:

1. Can unconventional gas exploration and extraction projects and operations be carried out on the island of Ireland whilst also protecting the environment and human health?

2. What is ‘best environmental practice’ in relation to such projects and operations?

To this end this scientific research programme is based on the consideration of existing baseline data with respect to groundwater, air and seismicity and the potential implications and mitigations that are required to be considered in order to understand the possible environmental impacts of using this technology. Additionally this research programme will draw on the experiences and recommendations of other countries, both those where this technology is permitted and those where it is not, in coming to a recommendation as to whether or not it can be undertaken in an environmentally protective manner in accordance with the requirements of environmental law.

The research is being undertaken by a consortium of independent organisations comprising CDM Smith, the British Geological Survey, University College Dublin, Ulster University, Queens University Belfast, AMEC Foster Wheeler and Philip Lee Solicitors. The project began in August 2014 and is scheduled to be complete in July 2016.

I can again confirm that no decision will be made on any proposal for the use of hydraulic fracturing, as part of any unconventional gas exploration and extraction programme until the EPA research has concluded and there has been time to consider its findings.

I can also confirm that I have received a further update report from the EPA which sets out in detail the specific tasks being undertaken by the consultancy consortium pursuant to each of the component projects, together with the status of these tasks.

I am happy to share this detailed update and I have made arrangements to have it published on my Department's website.

Mobile Telephony Services

Ceisteanna (21)

Brendan Smith

Ceist:

21. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 446 of 15 July 2014 and 579 of 7 October 2014, if he is aware that there has been no improvement in mobile telephone coverage in areas such as County Cavan and County Monaghan; if, as requested previously, he and the Commission for Communications Regulation will convey to the relevant telecommunications companies the need to upgrade such coverage to provide an appropriate service to their customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16197/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

I refer the Deputy to Question No. 9 on today's Order Paper.

Broadband Service Provision

Ceisteanna (22)

Charlie McConalogue

Ceist:

22. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if this Government is committed to providing fibre broadband to every household in County Donegal; if not, the reason for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16202/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The National Broadband Plan will deal conclusively with Ireland's connectivity challenge so that current and future generations will have a guaranteed access to high quality, high speed broadband, provided by commercial operators or through the proposed State intervention. The intervention network we wish to see built will be scalable and capable of meeting future anticipated traffic growth.

Whatever the technology used, the proposed intervention must ensure users have a minimum service of 30Mbps and that this can also meet future anticipated growth in traffic and consumer demand for more bandwidth.

In line with the EU competition rules, we must observe a policy of technology neutrality in any State intervention into a competitive market. However, the scale of the Government’s ambition, the step change in broadband quality demanded by the EU Commission’s State Aid guidelines, the exponential growth in demand from consumers and the on-going significant improvement in services that will be available to 70% of Irish premises through commercial investment, it is anticipated that a considerable level of fibre connectivity will be an important aspect of any network that it built, regardless of how the final access to the customer is delivered.

This is in line with the provisions of the State Aid Guidelines which point to the desirability of deploying fibre networks as close as possible to end-users. Through a variety of technology platforms, retail telecommunications providers will then able to use this wholesale network to offer services to the final customer.

Energy Production

Ceisteanna (23)

Brendan Griffin

Ceist:

23. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the much needed Shannon liquified natural gas project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16198/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Both I and Government colleagues have consistently been supportive of the proposal by Shannon LNG to construct a LNG terminal near Ballylongford, County Kerry. The LNG facility would provide additional security of supply to Ireland in that it would bring diversity to Ireland's supply sources and would bring connectivity for the first time to the global LNG market. Such a facility would be a positive step for the island of Ireland.

The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) was established in 1999 as Ireland’s independent electricity regulator under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and it is statutorily independent in the performance of its functions. Since 2002, the regulation of the gas market has been the responsibility of the CER.

While, I, as Minister, do not have any direct statutory function in relation to liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, including specific projects like the Shannon LNG project, I have met with various parties in regard to the development of the project.

Any investment decision in the proposed Shannon LNG project would be a commercial matter and one entirely for the company to take. I and my Department, however, remain available to assist Shannon LNG in whatever way we can, while of course respecting regulatory independence.

Electricity Transmission Network

Ceisteanna (24)

Michael Colreavy

Ceist:

24. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a review of the north-south interconnector is planned, considering changes made to the GridWest and GridLink projects. [16293/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

In January 2014, an Independent Expert Panel (IEP) was established to oversee the integrity of the process being undertaken by EirGrid to report on comprehensive, route-specific studies of overhead and underground options for both the Grid Link (GL) and Grid West (GW) projects. While the North South Transmission Line project (N/S) is outside the IEP's Terms of Reference, the IEP did agree, on foot of a request by my predecessor, to provide an opinion on the compatibility of the methodologies, to be employed on the GL and GW projects with what had already been done on the N/S project up to and including 2 May 2014, being the date that the IEP decided to examine the N/S project.

Having considered and discussed all of the material, the Panel issued a statement on 1 July 2014, indicating its unanimous opinion that, in all material respects, what had already been done on the N/S project is compatible with the methodologies being employed on the GW and GL projects.

On 27 March 2015 EirGrid published a new independently peer reviewed draft Strategy which allows for the achievement of an optimal balance between the competing demands of publicly consulting on necessary network development, choosing the best emerging technology options for that development, and minimising new build. The draft strategy found that there remains a clear need for the North South transmission line, and that the existing proposal for a 400kV overhead line remains the most appropriate solution for the project.

A further consultative process will be open to interested parties following submission to An Bord Pleanála of the final application in the coming weeks. Section 182A of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended) provides for the making of submissions in relation to an application for consent with respect to a development comprising electricity transmission infrastructure. A timeframe of not less than six week of public consultation is provided for under the section.

Broadband Service Provision

Ceisteanna (25)

Thomas Pringle

Ceist:

25. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way he envisages the Government will roll out broadband to those in remote rural areas and areas, not considered commercially viable for high speed broadband; if he has considered case studies done in other European countries and their approach to broadband roll-out in remote areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16282/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to ensure that every citizen and business, regardless of location, has access to a high quality, high speed broadband service. This will be achieved through a combination of commercial investments and a State led intervention in areas where commercial services will not be provided.

The commercial telecommunications sector is currently investing approximately €2.5 billion in network upgrades. Approximately 1.6 million of the 2.3 million premises in Ireland are expected to have access to commercial high speed broadband services over the next two years. These very significant investments represent a step-change in the quality of broadband services available.

It is anticipated that speeds of at least 30Mbps will be also delivered through the Government's intervention and the network will be designed to cater for future increased demand from consumers and business.

Intensive design and planning work is underway in my Department to produce a detailed intervention strategy. The strategy will address a range of issues in relation to the intervention including the optimum procurement model, ownership model for the infrastructure, intervention cost and likely market impact. This is an important part of the detailed work that is being undertaken to finalise the intervention strategy. As part of the strategy development, my Department is examining the experiences, solutions and methodologies used in EU countries and further afield in the development of broadband in those countries. The information gathered from this examination will inform the development of the Intervention Strategy. In addition, the Steering Group for the programme includes two UK and one French telecoms adviser.

Following a public consultation process on the draft Intervention Strategy during the summer, I hope to move to formal procurement phase towards the end of this year in order to select a preferred bidder or bidders.

The Department will design a tender in a way that maximises efficiencies and keeps the cost of the network build as low as possible. I anticipate that the first homes and businesses will be connected in 2016 and connections will continue thereafter, with the intention of having all premises connected within a 5 year period.

This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in Ireland.

Electricity Transmission Network

Ceisteanna (26)

Mattie McGrath

Ceist:

26. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the measures he is taking to address rural concerns regarding EirGrid's revised pylon strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16199/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

On 27 March 2015 Eirgrid published, for public comment, a discussion paper on Ireland's grid development strategy - "Your Grid, Your Views, Your Tomorrow.". The paper underlines EirGrid’s renewed efforts to engage with stakeholders and citizens with a view to encouraging greater public participation in the organisation’s decision making. Eirgrid are seeking public comments on the discussion paper on or before 22 May 2015 and I would encourage citizens to participate.

In my engagements with Eirgrid on grid development, I have highlighted the need to address local community and rural concerns, particularly those that are focused on the building of new infrastructure. The discussion document presents an ideal opportunity for all communities, both rural and urban, to provide their views on any future development of electricity transmission infrastructure. The discussion document is consistent with EirGrid’s January 2014 commitment to address, in a comprehensive manner, issues of concern to the agriculture, equine and other sectors.

In December 2014, having carried out a review of its public consultation process, EirGrid announced details of its new approach to enhance future public engagement regarding Grid25 projects. The new approach will involve the development of a more community focussed approach on projects; developing stronger relationships with stakeholders and communities; and seeking support from public representatives and public bodies in explaining energy issues and communicating the benefits of a stronger electricity system.

As part of these changes, I am advised that Eirgrid is currently finalising specialist reports on addressing concerns relating to agriculture and equine matters and has liaised extensively with relevant key bodies and groups. I understand that those reports will be finalised shortly. I also understand that EirGrid is recruiting liaison officers with appropriate specialist expertise to follow through on its commitments. The liaison officers will be located regionally and will liaise with landowners on relevant rural concerns including agricultural and equine matters.

Hydraulic Fracturing Policy

Ceisteanna (27)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

27. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason the contract for a study on hydraulic fracturing commissioned by his Department was awarded to a consortium led by a company (details supplied), in view of the fact the company sponsored the Shale Gas World Europe Conference in 2013, held in Warsaw; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16280/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Alex White)

I would like to clarify in the first instance that the multi-agency trans-boundary programme of research on the potential impacts on the environment and human health from Unconventional Gas Exploration & Extraction projects/operations has been commissioned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Programme is managed by the EPA and co-funded by the EPA, my Department and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency with oversight from a broad based Steering Committee that includes my Department.

As is usual in major and broad range projects such as this, the project team involves a range of expert institutions and companies and while CDM Smith is the lead consultant in the consortium engaged to carry out the programme of research, the project will be informed by the expert input of all of the participating bodies. The contract for this programme of research was awarded following a robust evaluation process in compliance with public procurement guidelines, where the tender submitted by the CDM Smith headed consortium was evaluated as being the strongest bid. The contract award procedure chosen for this competition was by open procedure. Six tenders were received. The evaluation panel was constituted to include personnel with the capacity to make informed decisions on the tenders received and the constitution of the evaluation panel was approved by the project Steering Committee.

The research programme is broad in its scope, covering several environmental parameters as well as operational practice and regulatory approaches around the world. CDM Smith is leading a consortium of organisations which are tasked with delivering the detailed objectives and technical aspects of this research programme. The consortium comprises CDM Smith, the British Geological Survey, University College Dublin, Ulster University, Queens University Belfast, AMEC Foster Wheeler and Philip Lee Solicitors, each offering a particular specialism required by the project scope.

One of the key requirements of the tender process was evidence of expertise in the field. The evaluation panel found that in this regard, that the tender led by CDM Smith provided an excellent response. The overall resourcing of the proposal was considered excellent with excellent legal expertise, a strong and experienced hydrogeological team, an excellent peer-review group proposed with high credibility in addition to a seismology team which was considered to be outstanding. Work undertaken by the consortium is reviewed by the members funding the programme and external experts appointed by them.

Renewable Energy Generation Targets

Ceisteanna (28)

Michael Moynihan

Ceist:

28. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps his Department is taking to meet the European Union target of 12% in renewable energy in the heat sector by 2020; the current percentage of renewable heat energy usage; the level of penalties the State faces at this level; the role biofuels can play to bridge the gap; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16191/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

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 2013, 7.8% of Ireland’s overall energy requirement was met by renewable energy with 5.7% of heat demand being met from renewable sources.

It is expected that most of the 12% renewable heat target will be achieved through the use of biomass technologies. In this regard, the uptake of combined heat and power under REFIT 3, along with the migration by certain heat users to renewable heat in response to market forces, will make a contribution to achieving the target. The requirements of Part L of the Building regulations are also expected to make a contribution to increasing the uptake of renewable heat.

However, progress towards the renewable heat target is proving to be challenging and analysis by the Sustanable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) suggests that in the absence of additional measures a shortfall in the region of 2 to 4 percentage points could emerge in the heat sector. This would represent between 1 and 2 percentage points in terms of the overall renewable energy target. Any shortfall in meeting the 16% target for 2020 would need to be addressed by purchasing "renewable energy credits" from another EU Member State. While the cost of such credits has yet to be established, the SEAI has estimated that it could be in the range of €100 million to €150 million per percentage point shortfall. There could also be penalties associated with any shortfall.

Analysis underpinning the Draft Bioenergy Plan, published in October last year, indicates that an additional bioenergy focussed measure in the heat sector would represent the most cost effective means of meeting a number of different policy goals including reducing the potential shortfall in our renewable heat levels. The draft Plan recommends the introduction of a Renewable Heat Incentive to incentivise larger heat users in the industrial and commercial sector to change to heating solutions that produce heat from renewable sources. A consultation on the development of this scheme will be published by my Department shortly.

Renewable Energy Generation Targets

Ceisteanna (29)

Thomas Pringle

Ceist:

29. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way he will maximise opportunities for citizens to participate in the transition to a carbon-free future and for community involvement in renewable energy initiatives, as proposed in the forthcoming energy White Paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16284/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

One of the central themes in the Green Paper on Energy Policy, published in May 2014, is citizen empowerment. Since its publication my Department undertook a public consultation process which included: (i) analysis of over 1200 written submissions and (ii) a series of stakeholder seminars on the various priority areas in the Green Paper. The seminars covered various topics including empowering energy citizens and putting the energy system on a sustainable pathway. A recurring message coming from both the written submissions and the seminars was the role that community energy could play in our future energy systems. The views submitted are being considered in the formation of the new energy policy framework.

It is important to note the various community level initiatives currently supported by Government, including the development of community energy through the Better Energy Areas and Communities Programme which is administered on behalf of my department by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). The programme allows community and locally based organisations to apply for funding on a competitive basis to support sustainable energy upgrades to existing buildings and facilities. It also promotes the creation and development of locally based entities that can engage and mobilise community resources to lower energy bills and boost local employment.

My Department is also preparing to publish a Draft Renewable Electricity Policy and Development Framework. The framework addresses the matter of community engagement and will be published for public consultation in the coming weeks. I look forward to receiving submissions which will be considered in the context of the Strategic Environmental Assessment, the Appropriate Assessment under the Habitats Directive and the subsequent finalisation of the framework.

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

Ceisteanna (30)

Michael Moynihan

Ceist:

30. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the process followed for the recent appointments to the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland's compliance committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16193/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The recent appointments to the Compliance Committee, a statutory Committee of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, were made by the Government in accordance with Section 8 of the Broadcasting Act 2009.

The appointment of members to the Compliance Committee does not come within the new arrangements on Appointments to State Boards.

Hydraulic Fracturing

Ceisteanna (31)

Michael Colreavy

Ceist:

31. Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there is a conflict of interest by a study by a company (details supplied) into hydraulic fracturing on behalf of Environmental Protection Agency. [16292/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

I would like to clarify in the first instance that the multi-agency trans-boundary programme of research on the potential impacts on the environment and human health from Unconventional Gas Exploration & Extraction projects/operations has been commissioned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Programme is managed by the EPA and co-funded by the EPA, my Department and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency with oversight from a broad based Steering Committee that includes my Department.

As is usual in major and broad range projects such as this, the project team involves a range of expert institutions and companies and while CDM Smith is the lead consultant in the consortium engaged to carry out the programme of research, the project will be informed by the expert input of all of the participating bodies. The contract for this programme of research was awarded following a robust evaluation process in compliance with public procurement guidelines, where the tender submitted by the CDM Smith headed consortium was evaluated as being the strongest bid. The contract award procedure chosen for this competition was by open procedure. Six tenders were received. The evaluation panel was constituted to include personnel with the capacity to make informed decisions on the tenders received and the constitution of the evaluation panel was approved by the project Steering Committee.

The research programme is broad in its scope, covering several environmental parameters as well as operational practice and regulatory approaches around the world. CDM Smith is leading a consortium of organisations which are tasked with delivering the detailed objectives and technical aspects of this research programme. The consortium comprises CDM Smith, the British Geological Survey, University College Dublin, Ulster University, Queens University Belfast, AMEC Foster Wheeler and Philip Lee Solicitors, each offering a particular specialism required by the project scope.

One of the key requirements of the tender process was evidence of expertise in the field. The evaluation panel found that in this regard, that the tender led by CDM Smith provided an excellent response. The overall resourcing of the proposal was considered excellent with excellent legal expertise, a strong and experienced hydrogeological team, an excellent peer-review group proposed with high credibility in addition to a seismology team which was considered to be outstanding. Work undertaken by the consortium is reviewed by the members funding the programme and external experts appointed by them.

Energy Prices

Ceisteanna (32)

Michael Moynihan

Ceist:

32. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on discussions and steps being taken by member states at European Union level to ensure that electricity and gas suppliers pass on the reduction of global oil and gas prices to domestic consumers. [16195/15]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

The European Commission recently published the Energy Union Package, A Framework Strategy for a Resilient Energy Union with a Forward-Looking Climate Change Package. The package and accompanying suite of documents are published at http://ec.europa.eu/priorities/energy-union/index_en.htm. These documents set out the European Union policy to achieve secure, sustainable competitive and affordable energy for all EU energy customers, household and business. Together with my fellow EU energy ministers I have contributed to the debate on the energy union strategy, most recently at energy ministers meetings in Brussels and Riga.

At the heart of the policy is a vision for an Energy Union composed of an integrated Europe-wide energy system where energy flows freely across borders, based on competition and the efficient use of resources, with effective regulation of energy markets and delivering a sustainable and climate friendly economy that is designed to last and serve the interests of Irish and European consumers. The five dimensions of the Energy Union framework are: energy security based on solidarity and trust; a fully integrated European energy market; energy efficiency contributing to moderation of demand; decarbonising the economy; and research, innovation and competitiveness.

Among the proposals in the strategy designed to achieve the full integration of the European internal energy market are the full implementation of the Energy Third Package legislation and the enhancement of regional approaches to energy market integration. The Commission also intends to ensure greater transparency in the composition of energy costs and prices by developing regular and detailed monitoring and reporting on energy prices, with particular attention to the role of taxes, levies and national supports. The Commission also intends to prepare an ambitious legislative proposal to redesign the electricity market, including a proposal to link wholesale and retail markets.

For our part, the Integrated Single Electricity Market Project (I-SEM), led by the regulators in Ireland and Northern Ireland, will deliver improved electricity regional market integration. This will achieve, inter alia, greater competition in the wholesale generation market and greater access to lower wholesale prices in neighbouring markets, with more efficient use of interconnection between the island of Ireland and Great Britain.