Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

I have no doubt that, notwithstanding the implications in respect of energy and other matters, responsibility for miscanthus comes within the remit of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. I accept that it is a quick earner for farmers. However, the market relating to it must still be developed. A product development project - in the context of mixing wood and miscanthus on a 50-50 basis - in respect of peat-fired generating stations is in train. I am sure this will help the market to grow. Ultimately, the market will determine the success of the sector. The start-up grant will obviously play its part but more will be required in the context of good market development.

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