Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2026
113. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will report on the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27491/26]
View answer136. Deputy Catherine Ardagh asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce. [27253/26]
View answer138. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the Energy Affordability Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27565/26]
View answer144. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the progress being made in the work of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27314/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 113, 136, 138 and 144 together.
In June 2025, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability.
In response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, I chaired a meeting of the NEAT on 19 March 2026. Discussions covered the macro implications of the conflict for global energy markets; current supply and pricing conditions across oil, gas and electricity in Ireland; customer support measures in place; and the European response to the crisis. A subsequent meeting of the Taskforce was held on 26 March, chaired by the Secretary General of my Department. My Department and the Taskforce continues to actively monitor the current geopolitical situation and the impact on energy markets.
The First Report of the Taskforce, which included measures for consideration in Budget 2026, was published last November. The report is available on gov.ie. The Taskforce has now turned to the preparation of an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be completed in Q3. The Action Plan will include a review of cost drivers within the energy sector and consideration of how the EU Action Plan for Affordable Energy and associated guidance can be implemented in an Irish context. This will include examining how targeted schemes can best assist households in energy poverty and consider supports for households struggling to meet their energy costs.
