Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 November 2016
168. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will intervene to ensure the future of a power plant (details supplied) is protected in view of an announcement by a company that indicates future closure of the plant in years to come; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33107/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the outset I want to say that any loss of jobs and the impact on individuals, households and local communities is a source of real regret.
Tarbert power station, like all such plants, has a physical and operational design life. The power station is a Heavy Fuel Station that commenced operations in 1969 under the ownership of the ESB and was originally scheduled to close in 2010 due to its advanced age, inefficiency and its use of a heavily polluting fuel. Before its closure, it was purchased by Endesa who sought and were granted planning permission to develop and build a modern and efficient electricity power plant fuelled by gas. That company subsequently sold the plant to SSE.
In the liberalised energy market, it is a commercial decision for the company to take in regard to the future of the plant. I am advised that the company, SSE, has stated that the redundancies are required to ensure the plant's continued competitiveness and help safeguard the continued operation of Tarbert Power Plant.
