All-island energy market takes step closer

An all-island energy market took a step closer today with the launch of the draft all island Energy Market Framework consultation document.

Enterprise Minister, Barry Gardiner and Irish Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Dermot Ahern, launched the document which charts the way forward for the creation of an all-island energy market and sets out strategic objectives and key priorities to be achieved over the next three years.

Mr Gardiner said: “This draft Framework is a critical and essential part of the process of developing an all-island energy market which I fully support. The all-island market should deliver improved services and economic benefits to customers North and South.

"It will also support continued economic growth throughout the island. I look forward to constructive and productive discussions on the draft Framework over the next few months.”

Minister Ahern added: “The publication of the draft Development Framework for consultation is a very significant step forward in the process of North South co-operation in the energy sector. It marks the beginning of an exciting new phase in these discussions.

“In the past, the principal focus for co-operation has been on the importance of developing our shared infrastructure. In this key new phase, while we continue to press ahead with infrastructural developments, we are also moving specifically to harmonise policies and practices in energy markets."

The two Ministers invited the energy industry, energy consumers and any other interested parties to make submissions on the draft document by Friday 27 August 2004.

Co-operation between Ireland and Northern Ireland on energy matters takes place under the auspices of a Joint Steering Group (JSG) established by Ministers to advance North/South co-operation over 6 specific areas last July.

That group comprises senior officials from the two Government Departments and the offices of the two Regulators.

(MB)