John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

I read with interest Deputy Naughten's speech at the Ard-Fheis on this issue. I notice that most if not all the issues he raised in his document were ones we have been encouraging for the past year. In reply to the Deputy, the scheme for relief on excise duty, which is operated by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, is very successful and some of the projects are situated in my county.

A number of projects are administered in conjunction with the Minister, Deputy Noel Dempsey, and his Department. A scheme for wood burning boilers is about to be introduced, as is a scheme for biomass harvesting machines. In answer to the Deputy's question about alternative crops, we are also putting together a scheme for the use of willow which will be announced soon. This will encourage the growing of 500 hectares of willow and grant aid will be provided. Some of the issues raised by Deputy Naughten last weekend and again in the House today are being dealt with by the Government and we are way ahead of his thinking.

See this speech in context