8. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his attendance at the annual World Economic Forum meeting in Davos. [28396/26]

Sentiment score: 0.00

A key discussion point at Davos this year was energy security and electrification. Were there any discussions in relation to the decoupling of gas from electricity prices? We have seen wholesale electricity prices go up 19% already this month as a direct consequence of the invasion of Iran but we really have not seen the impacts of the invasion of Ukraine being rectified on the electricity market, and gas prices set our electricity prices at the moment. Has the Taoiseach had any discussions, either with President von der Leyen or anyone else, in relation to the decoupling of gas from electricity prices? Is it something he is going to prioritise as part of his Presidency coming up in July?

Sentiment score: 0.11

18. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Taoiseach to provide an update on the work of the Cabinet offshore energy clearing house. [28397/26]

Sentiment score: 0.09

I will take ownership of the Arklow bank as well. This clearing house was established to identify the impediments and challenges, which the Taoiseach did not refer to at all. There are clear impediments to offshore wind. As Deputy Byrne stated, Arklow bank is no longer producing offshore wind energy. We were producing more 20 years ago than we are now. The interconnector to France is required, not only to export electricity but also in the event we need to import it. We heard recently that it is going to be delayed by two years. Can the Taoiseach tell me why the interconnector is going to be delayed? Does it give rise to concern for the Taoiseach that such a major project, which is necessary for the security of Ireland's energy - it is nearly a whisper in the media - is being delayed by two years? The project is hugely important, so will the Taoiseach tell us exactly why this has happened?

Sentiment score: 0.09

They would be better off working on the interconnector.

Sentiment score: 0.44