Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I support Senator John Paul Phelan's recommendation. This is a proposal which must be driven forward, excuse the pun. It is both an alternative energy and income source for the farming community.

There has been much talk on the subject of alternative fuels and biofuels are at the core of that debate. However, very little action has been taken and few incentive measures introduced. From both an agricultural and the broader environmental perspective, we must be proactive at both national and European level in seeking out new sources of energy, especially with the reduction in the amount of so-called conventional fuels now available.

I ask the Minister of State to note this recommendation. This country must make it clear that it is proactive in the search for alternative and renewable sources of energy. It will be all the better if two problems can be solved together. The Minister of State is aware from his previous incarnation of the prospects which agriculture can offer in that respect.