Taoiseach Martin Acknowledges Irish Nuclear Energy Imports, Calls for Debate Amid Opposition

Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed Ireland will import nuclear energy via an interconnector with France, supporting France’s nuclear capacity. He stated the government would examine Fianna Fáil TD James O’Connor’s legislation to end Ireland’s 1999 ban on nuclear power development.

Martin’s comments in the Dáil responded to Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn, who urged lifting the nuclear ban and reversing the 2021 ban on gas and oil exploration. O’Flynn highlighted the contradiction of Ireland banning domestic nuclear power while importing it from France. Martin, however, emphasized offshore wind as Ireland’s immediate focus and first priority for renewables, but added that a serious examination of nuclear power, including costs and timelines, is needed.

Opposition TDs criticized Martin’s call for a nuclear discussion. People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy called it «crazy» and argued against nuclear development in Ireland due to safety concerns and its potential to distract from data center energy consumption. Green Party Senator Malcolm Noonan deemed it a «distraction» from current energy cost concerns, suggesting the Oireachtas Committee on Climate, which is examining Sellafield nuclear waste, is the proper forum. Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín expressed openness to nuclear but doubted any TD would welcome a reactor in their constituency, criticizing Ireland’s energy imports and lack of offshore wind turbines.