Press Releases
O'Malley rubbishes Fine Gael's 'protectionist energy stance
Progressive Democrats press release
May 4, 2006
O'Malley rubbishes Fine Gael's 'protectionist' energy stance
Progressive Democrats Energy spokeswoman Fiona O'Malley says a confused Fine Gael Party is now attaching itself to backward and damaging energy policies.
The Dun Laoghaire deputy made the comments after the Party's worrying support for a Dail motion advocating an antiquated attitude to State investment in energy, which would prevent Ireland developing its own natural resources.
"The suggestion that we shouldn't give companies tax breaks to come in and explore our reserves is ridiculous and reminds me of Ireland's depressing 1930s protectionist past. Why is Fine Gael siding with those peddling failed, Statist economic policies?" she asked.
If the State took control of exploring indigenous energy sources it would cost taxpayers billions of euro. The private sector has the resources, expertise and practical experience essential for investment in such financially-risky operations. The Government's primary duty is to be responsible with public money.
She said our current tax regime reflects the high risk involved in exploring reserves in Ireland and it was a system that must be maintained.
She said the rhetoric employed by Opposition members during the ill-thought-out Dail motion from the Technical Group could have come straight from a university Marxists society flyer.
"This is a great example of the choice that is facing the electorate next time out. Government policy has to relate to the real world and the alternative on offer is pitifully removed from that reality. Who would have thought Fine Gael would have allied themselves to such a motley crew. It's now next to impossible to know what that Party stands for."
For further information please contact Mary Minihan in the Progressive Democrats press office on 01-6183615 or 087-1225140. Many thanks. Note: Deputy O'Malley recently launched the Progressive Democrats Energy Policy, Power the Future (see: http://www.progressivedemocrats.ie/press_room/1683/).