Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

It is a recognition of the significantly lower levels of pollutants emitted by hybrid vehicles that this exemption is being extended. The exemption relates to continuously changing technology and is being extended on a two-year basis. We may have hydrogen cars or even more environmentally friendly cars in the future. The Minister will review the exemption at the end of 2006 and will extend it further if he thinks it reasonable.