Allister puts concerns to Energy Minister
15 January 2008
Traditional Unionist MEP Jim Allister met with Energy Minister Nigel Dodds recently to discuss a range of issues, including the proposed Rose Energy project.
The MEP said,
“I put to the Minister that the strategic nature of Rose Energy, a project designed to provide a disposal solution for 300,000 tonnes of poultry litter and litter equivalent on behalf of the poultry industry, and in line with the Nitrates Directive is such that it must not fail. Adequate grant aid from Government is essential if the project is to progress. Bearing in mind that the EU derogation for heaping litter in fields is due to expire at the end of this year, funding must be committed as a matter of urgency.”
“The consequences for the Northern Ireland poultry industry would be enormous if the necessary funding for an off-farm solution of this scale is not forthcoming. I, along with poultry farmers and other industry representatives await the outcome of the Minister’s decision with great interest.”
“I also raised concerns regarding the newly launched Single Electricity Market. Already, complaints have been received from two Northern Ireland generating companies claiming foul play. With electricity prices likely to increase in the short term, Northern Ireland consumers wait to be convinced of the merits of the SEM approach.”
ENDS
