The Government is being called on to take a leadership role in deciding the future of Moneypoint.
Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch is reacting to comments from the Tánaiste, who says the Government awaits a plan from the ESB on how it intends to manage the transition away from coal at the West Clare plant.
Minister Simon Coveney also believes there is a future for Moneypoint and opportunities for Clare, as Clare FM’s Fiona McGarry reports:
The government is awaiting a plan from the ESB on how it intends to manage the transition of Moneypoint away from coal – that could come within months.
The transition is necessary as Ireland looks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and will take place by 2025, but questions remain about the impact on the local workforce.
Biomass, gas and renewable forms of energy have all been mentioned as replacements for coal and Tánaiste Simon Coveney feels such a change may result in opportunities for Clare.
But Kilrush Independent TD Ian Lynch fears the buck is being passed to the ESB and is calling on the Government to take a leadership role in deciding the future of the plant.
Councillor Lynch says steps need to be taken now to prevent and negative impact on the economy.
