Madam, - I write in response to the article by David Taylor, chief executive of Sustainable Energy Ireland, in your edition of June 27th.
The last sentence, which refers to success "in the long term" exemplifies the approach of Sustainable Energy Ireland and the current Government. Why do we lag so far behind the UK and the rest of Europe in developing renewable energy sources?
Micro wind turbines were inexplicably excluded from the recent Greener Homes grant scheme, though there are generous grants and feed-in tariffs in Northern Ireland. The connection of wind farms to the National Grid remains backed up and the EU is investigating whether the whole regime may discriminate in favour of fossil fuels. Little progress is being made in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and we are facing large fines for failing in our commitments under the Kyoto Agreement.
Leadership and vision are lacking at Government level. We need a Sean Lemass - or a Minister who will deliver renewable energy as effectively as the smoking ban was introduced. Progress in this area is being made at a snail's pace and when the energy crisis comes the Republic of Ireland is going to face a major shock. - Yours, etc,
DONALL MAC AN BHEATHA, Ardagh, Co Longford.