Shane McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)

I have attended a number of conferences during the six weeks I have been in office, at which serious interest was expressed in regard to the growing of miscanthus and willow crops. Many local authorities, in particular in County Clare, have taken it upon themselves to provide their own heat, through the use of wood pellets and chips. We have an obligation to do this.

There is much frustration within the energy industry. With the support of the Government and Department, many people got involved in the growing of willow and miscanthus but the refit tariff has not yet come through despite our having applied for it almost 12 months ago. This is a major factor in terms of people opting to grow willow, which is a long term plantation, or miscanthus. With greater demand for arable ground and farming going well, this will become more competitive. I am happy that the refit tariff problem will be sorted out shortly. One must apply to the EU for status and accommodation of the tariff and we have replied to all of the questions put to us in this regard.

I am happy this matter will be sorted our fairly soon. This will encourage people, in particular in the energy, sector, to get involved as they will have a fixed income. One cannot get involved in something on a wing and a prayer basis. Willow cannot be grown on any type of ground and one must grow a certain tonnage in order for it to be viable. Also, one must have an outlet for it. I recently attended the Birr show and other shows. People are confident that we can provide our own energy. Energy prices are resulting in higher costs in the farming and pig industry and as such the more energy we can provide the more viable these industries will be.

I am unable to provide the Deputy with a response in regard to his question about whether the 70,000 acres is achievable. However, given the year that is in it we must steady ourselves. We have set targets which I believe we can reach. We must steady the situation in terms of funding. As Minister of State, I am responsible for horticulture and forestry. We must steady the flow of money to support these sectors. Farmers and other people cannot be encouraged to get involved in a business unless it provides a steady income. It is great that marginal land is coming back into grazing. This land is also good for willow and miscanthus planting.

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