Ireland sees the risks but acts too late and pays for it every time

Across energy, housing and infrastructure, Ireland has a problem with timing and governance, writes Professor Aoife Foley

The Kinsale gas field declined and ceased production around 2020 without a replacement system. Ireland now relies heavily on imported gas.

Ireland does not have a problem with ambition. It has a problem with timing and governance.

Across energy, housing and infrastructure, the same pattern repeats. Risks are visible early. But decisions are delayed. By the time action is taken, it is reactive, expensive and often temporary.