Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2026
316. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to provide the attendees, agendas, and scheduled meeting date of the “Annual Data Centre Sector Roundtable”, which was created through Action 9 of the Large Energy-user Action Plan (LEAP). [51612/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Large Energy User Action Plan (LEAP) is a medium-term plan that seeks to enable Ireland to attract next generation investment in energy intensive sectors associated with the greatest future strategic economic opportunities. These could include semiconductors, very large manufacturers, pharmaceuticals and digital technology enablers such as data centres. It will likewise ensure that continued industrial development is aligned with Government’s renewable energy and climate objectives, as well as other strategic priorities such as the provision of housing.
Action 9 of LEAP provides for the establishment of an annual roundtable meeting to facilitate discussion on the opportunities and challenges associated with future sustainable data centre growth in Ireland. Subject to agreement by each respective body, it is envisaged that participation in this roundtable will include officials from the Department of the Taoiseach, the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, as well as representatives from Ireland's energy system operators, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities and the data centre industry. Subject to availability, it is envisaged that the first Roundtable under LEAP Action 9 will take place during the final quarter of 2026.
