Dáil debates

Wednesday, 15 November 2006

Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2006: Report Stage (Resumed)

 

6:00 pm

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

Notwithstanding the Minister's comments, I believe there is a necessity to introduce a standard in this area that is not provided for in the rest of the Bill. All sides of this House support the production of alternative fuels and some of these will not involve gas, oil or electricity. If we are to achieve the targets set regarding the alternative fuels industry, it follows that we can support a series of alternative fuels, including biofuels and the burning of wood pellets. Standards should be introduced that relate only to the alternative fuels sector.

The Minister correctly refers to the gas industry and I wish to raise a different kind of gas that can emanate from incorrect installations. I know SEI has set out advanced standards, but the representations I received are from well-established installers in the industry who believe it is time to set out standards for the installation of home heating facilities. There is a variety of facilities now available that are more sophisticated than those previously available. We are now achieving a higher level of insulation in our homes, which causes a greater safety threat if carbon gases leak.

We are achieving higher standards of insulation and aspire to higher standards still in the future. We should copperfasten our position on alternative energy in this Bill by accepting this amendment or one like it. The Minister said previously that he would consider it but he is not well disposed towards doing so at present. Perhaps his disposition will change as the day, or night, goes on. If an amendment of this nature is not incorporated into the legislation, we may find ourselves back here asking ourselves why it was not accepted in the first place.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.