Government could take over oil distribution in case of 'unlikely' severe shortage

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The Government is to prepare legislation to take over the distribution of oil in the event of a severe shortage under plans going to Cabinet this morning.

Minister Eamon Ryan is looking for priority-drafting of a bill to strengthen the Government's response to an oil emergency.

The Government considers a severe squeeze on oil supply unlikely this winter but is preparing for all scenarios.

Energy Minister Eamon Ryan wants to speed up drafting of a bill to allow the Government significant powers over the country's oil supply in a severe or prolonged oil emergency.

The wording of the bill is likely to be sweeping but non-specific in the actions the Government could take with those new powers.

Exercises have been done in the Department to examine what would happen in the event of an oil or gas crisis.

This could include limiting the supply of fuel at the forecourts and the limiting of sale of fuel to people in certain key professions.

However, Minister Eamon Ryan will tell his colleagues the bill is unlikely to be needed and Ireland has an adequate oil reserve.