The Government’s sudden interest in nuclear energy is a distraction tactic to mask their huge failures in developing this country’s biggest natural resource – off-shore wind. That’s according to Social Democrats energy spokesperson Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore said:
“As an island nation, we should be a world leader in off-shore wind and a net exporter of energy. Instead, we are laggards because this and previous governments have failed to tap into this massive potential.
“We now have zero off-shore wind being generated off the coast of Ireland, a worse position than 20 years ago, with no prospect of any coming on stream for at least five or six years.
“Instead of turning to nuclear – something which would take years to develop; comes with enormous risks; and cost huge sums of money – we should be doubling down on renewables, off-shore wind and solar.
“Going big on solar now will also massively reduce people’s energy bills, by at least €450 per year. The Social Democrats have a five-point ‘Solar For All’ plan that we could roll out now to dramatically expand and improve supports for solar installation – starting with doubling the existing grant from €1,800 to €3,600 and the provision of a €1,000 grant for battery storage.
“Instead of muddying the waters by bringing nuclear energy into the debate, solar and wind power is where the Government’s focus should be.”
May 7, 2026