Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

In respect of the first matter, my understanding was that at the time of the discussion, the voucher associated with the vouched fuel scheme related to the need to deal with a solid fuel issue arising from the importation of lower grade coal and peat products, possibly from Northern Ireland. There was some indication that a vouched scheme was required for that purpose. I take the point that the then Minister for Social and Family Affairs was suggesting that from her perspective, she obviously wanted to see all recipients dealt with. As I understand it, the overall affordable fuel strategy is at an advanced stage and has yet to come before the Government. However, I cannot be any more specific than that. I referred to the point that at the time of the discussions when the carbon levy was being introduced, the need to deal with that solid fuel issue was high on the agenda because of the problem of the possibility of lower grade imports coming into the jurisdiction.

On the question regarding the climate change Bill, the heads, which will set out the proposed structure and provisions of the Bill in greater detail, are at an advanced stage and I expect them to be brought before the Government soon. Following their approval by the Government, the heads will provide the basis for full stakeholder consultation on the proposed provisions of the Bill. A framework for the climate change Bill was provided for last October and was presented prior to the Copenhagen conference.

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