Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 April 2026
177. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department has produced an Oil Emergency Plan as required under S.20 of the Oil Emergency Contingency and Transfer of Renewable Transport Fuel Functions Act 2023 (amending the National Oil Reserves Agency Act 2007); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27651/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Oil Emergency Response Plan (OERP) provides the basis of Ireland’s response to an oil supply shock and provides me, as Minister, with substantial legal powers to secure and protect supply. This plan is reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure that it evolves with the changing external environment and reflects emerging risks.
The plan and underpinning legislation and structures have been substantially enhanced and updated following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, building on the strong foundations that were in place. As a result, Ireland is much better prepared to manage the current situation.
In terms of fuel availability more generally for essential sectors, my Department is actively monitoring the situation and is liaising closely with national and international partners.
It is important to note that my Department has convened the Oil Security of Supply Group which meets weekly and consists of relevant Government Departments and Agencies, in addition to Fuels for Ireland and oil companies. At the meeting of 7 April industry confirmed that Ireland’s fuel supply chains remain robust and reliable.
Furthermore, the National Oil Reserves Agency, NORA, has operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the State’s Strategic Oil Reserve. Stock may be released from Ireland’s stockholding in the event of a shortage of refined product on the domestic market, or as recently happened to participate in an International Energy Agency collective action, to alleviate a global oil shortage.
