Mr. Frank Maughan:

I am trying to get to the point that the model used in the plan is based on looking across the entire economy and the technologies that can be used. It is based on the marginal abatement cost curve set out in chapter 4 of the plan. It is a matter for the policy design to determine the best way to achieve each of the various targets, including those for the numbers of electric vehicles, retrofitting, etc. From that point of view, the plan does not set out specific costings because there is a policy design phase to come. Part of the approach adopted in the plan and the actions set out in it allow space for the policy design phase. In the plan we are not pre-empting budgetary decisions in terms of how the Government will choose to reach the targets. There are design issues to be followed up on. There are also questions about whether it will be done through expenditure, regulatory or taxation measures. From that point of view, the plan does not set out costings across the board. I indicated in my opening statement that the Exchequer resources available to the Government were set out in the national development plan. That is the extent of the envelope available in terms of resources.