Energy Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2023

Tuesday, 28 February 2023

Ceisteanna (142)

Neasa Hourigan

Ceist:

142. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to amend the mandates of the CRU, ESB and GNI, as detailed in the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, the Gas Act 1976 and the Electricity (Supply) Act 1927 respectively, to incorporate commitments to act in accordance with national and international climate and environmental law and to ensure engagement and early consultation with local communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9728/23]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

CRU, ESB and GNI are already obliged to comply with national and international climate and environmental law and other environmental objectives set out in the Programme for Government, Government strategy and policy documents and legislation. The Climate Action Plan 2023 and the Climate Action Framework for the commercial semi-State sector for example will help ensure that they can play a lead role in Ireland’s transition to a carbon neutral economy and society.

There are a number of tools and mechanisms available to ensure that this happens, such as Shareholder Letters of Expectations, oversight agreements, rolling corporate and strategic plans and consideration of consent requests from the organisations. My Department strongly encourages  all our State Bodies to engage with the public and local communities  to build trust and consensus, which is critical to achieving our climate and environmental objectives.

There are no plans to amend the Gas Act, Electricity Regulation Act and Electricity Supply Act at this point.