Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)

There would be no need for higher electricity prices to buy CO2 allowances and no need for the Government to pay fines to the EU.

What was mentioned with regard to the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, namely, €13 million for this and €20 million for that, is a demonstration. The Minister will receive little for real changes with regard to how we will reduce our carbon footprints and emissions. The Government's climate change strategy is way behind on what it indicated.

What about today's announcements on motor tax? We support the proposal to give reductions in VRT to people who buy emission reducing cars. This is the proper direction to go. However, last year hybrid vehicles accounted for less than 2% of sales of motor vehicles. A Lexus, which I understand is the model of choice for many people, costs €30,000. How many families will be able to opt for the Lexus to avail of the cut in VRT?

Let us be honest about it and call a spade a spade. The increases in motor tax are about raising revenue and not revenue neutrality.

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