Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I move:

That Seanad Éireann welcomes the Government initiative to introduce a biofuel obligation scheme in July 2010, in view of the benefits accruing in terms of emissions reductions from transport, in terms of increased security of supply for road transport fuel, and the increased potential for employment and economic activity from domestic production of biofuel.

The motion is a consequence of the renewable energy directive from the European Community. This places an obligation and a requirement on all member states that 10% of energy used in transport shall be renewable by 2020. It is recognised that bio-fuels will have a central role to play in this. Bio-fuels will not be used exclusively because there is developing technology in the area of electric vehicles.

I wish to raise a point of order. This concerns Standing Order 41, which suggests that every amendment must be relevant to the motion to which it is proposed. I do not expect a ruling immediately because the Leas-Chathaoirleach might need time to consider this matter. The amendment proposed by the Opposition is not valid.