Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

This also arises in the context of the directive under discussion. One of the concerns that has been brought to our attention by pig and poultry and producers, for example, is that they will not have adequate lands available to spread slurry. Therefore, on that basis, the Minister of State, Deputy Browne, and the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Noel Dempsey, considered the issue of energy crops and biofuels. The issue of anaerobic digestate is annexed to this. In my constituency, the farm relief service proposes to introduce an anaerobic digester.

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government drafted the national biodegradable strategy. However, to progress and transfer from landfill to anaerobic digestion would require the amendment of statutory instruments. On the basis of present consultations, the changes with regard to BSE and the issue of dealing with the nitrates directive are at the top of the agenda for consideration. Changes will be made as quickly as possible.

It is new technology for us but old for others. On the basis of an attitudinal change in this country, opportunities arise in regard to this new technology. It is being advanced with other technologies to deal with what is perceived as a waste product but, as Deputy Sargent rightly suggests, which can be used. I hope an attitudinal change will also take place in the planning process, although I note Deputy Upton is rightly throwing her eyes to heaven.

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