Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I thank Deputies for their contributions, although I disagreed with many of them. Deputies asked what we were doing. Many of them are in denial that we are doing anything, which is quite astonishing. I will outline some of the things which have been done. On energy, for example, the renewal energy support system is facilitating connection of renewal energy to the grid. Deputies know that, although they can deny the truth. Ireland will meet its EU targets to generate 13% of its electricity from renewable resources saving €1.3 million in terms of emissions.

In agriculture, for example, I said that CAP reform and the nitrates programme will reduce emissions by 2.4%. Forestry will reduce emissions by 2.08 million tonnes. Despite what a number of Deputies said, it is simply untrue that nothing is happening in regard to buildings. As the House knows, we have introduced progressive and ongoing measures to improve energy efficiency in homes. Energy certification of buildings is being phased in next year. Budget 2006 established the highly successful green house grant scheme. The Government introduced support for businesses to switch to renewable energy. Also, we recently initiated the national energy efficiency campaign, the Power of One. All of these make a significant contribution.

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