Gript Media Podcasts Energy isn't a luxury
Mar 11, 2026
Peadar Toibín, leader of Aontú and TD, speaks on energy policy, defence, planning reform and social media regulation. He discusses fuel poverty, carbon tax impacts, renewables and grid limits. He argues for stronger defence investment, faster transport projects, planning reform and tougher rules to protect children online.
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Tighten Standing And One Application Rule
- Reform standing and consolidate planning approvals to cut vexatious objections and speed projects.
- Toibín proposes one planning application for all authorities and limiting standing to those with material or geographic interest.
Suspend Carbon Hikes And Cut In Surges
- Toibín opposes further carbon-tax increases and argues surges should trigger reductions.
- He highlights carbon tax as ~€1bn revenue and says suspending hikes will protect households during price shocks.
Fund Hospitals By Output To Cut Waste
- Toibín suggests hospitals should be funded by output not block budgets to reduce waste and increase operations.
- He recommends paying hospitals per operation to incentivise staff and cut middle management overhead.