Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

In answer to the Deputy's second question, I think we will reach our target. We have already identified 14.6 million tonnes of savings out of a target of almost 15.3 million tonnes, as well as a series of measures which were not calculated as part of the 14.6 million tonnes but will take us beyond the target. The bioheat programme could allow for reductions of 160,000 tonnes, a figure which did not form part of the earlier calculation. A further reduction of 300,000 tonnes could be made through the increased use of renewables in electricity production. As I mentioned earlier, we aim to more than double the proportion of renewable resources used, an increase which Deputy Cuffe correctly supported on the basis that it is the best option and because it saves tonnage. An additional reduction of 20,000 tonnes which will be made from the green homes scheme was not included in the 14.6 million or mentioned in the EEA report. An extraordinary 250,000 tonnes will be cut through the conversion of anaerobically digested waste into energy. A range of other measures mentioned in the Green Paper which have not yet been calculated will bring us beyond the target of 15.2 million tonnes.

Deputy Gilmore wrongly suggested, in his charming way, that Ireland stands alone on this issue. The Irish economy has grown by 150%, whereas greenhouse gas emissions have increased by 23%. It would be much nicer if the increase in emissions was only 13% but we are working towards that figure. Seven of the EU 15 have wider gaps to bridge than Ireland. Austria's gap stands at 29%, Denmark at 19%, Finland at14%, Italy at 19%, Luxembourg at 28%, Portugal at 14% and Spain at 33%. We will meet our responsibilities on emissions.

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