Environmental Protection Agency (Emergency Electricity Generation) (Amendment) Bill 2023: Committee and Remaining Stages
Dail Éireann — 2023-03-08
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Eamon Ryan (GP), Dublin Bay South

There is no prospect of any other sites being used. The 2022 Act is precise and clear as to what designated development is. The intention is for it to be located at two separate sites, that is, Shannonbridge and Tarbert generation stations. It is not possible to use alternative sites.
Legally, courts have to interpret a particular provision, but any assessment by a court of the definition of "winter", including one based on the various definitions put forward by the Deputies, will be seen as appropriate. We cannot stop with 2024 because it goes on for several more winters. We will have a shortfall in the coming period, not just next winter but in the two to three winters after that, which is why we are providing for it. We have a sunset clause, however, which is set out clearly in the legislation.
My officials have rightly pointed out that the legislation allows for the potential for alternative sites but we have 450 MW already on those two sites. That is also set out as a designated development so it will not extend beyond the initial two sites. We need them quickly.

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Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:51:40+00:00
Sitting date: 2023-03-08