Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I thank Senator Bradford for sharing time and enabling me to contribute to the debate on this interesting topic. I welcome the Minister who has a great attendance record in the House, particularly for debates on bio-fuels and wind and wave energy. I extend my best wishes to all those involved in a project off the coast of Belmullet in west Mayo.

I am not surprised Senator Jim Walsh was excited by the Fine Gael Party amendment given that it is more positive than the Government motion. The Minister should incorporate this positive amendment in the motion. Deputy Coveney should be congratulated on the work he has done on researching and developing the plans set out in the NewERA policy document, under which Bord na Móna and Coillte would be merged in a new semi-State body known as bio-energy Ireland. This plan would create 100,000 jobs and generate large sums for the economy.

Does the Minister have plans to have the railway network electrified? Electrification of the rail network is under way in a number of other jurisdictions where rail is recognised as the greenest transport sector.

It is estimated that approximately 30% of bio-fuels in Ireland are produced by Irish companies. However, the 4% obligation for bio-fuels which the Minister has proposed will represent a significant increase. We will not be able to produce such a level of bio-fuels locally. Therefore, a majority of it will be sourced abroad. This will incur a cost in terms of the miles required to transfer the fuel to Ireland. Senator Bradford raised an important point, namely, the issue of farming and the closure of sugar factories in Carlow and Mallow. There is a golden opportunity to put in place alternative farming practices to produce bio-fuels in those locations. As Senator O'Reilly said, we have to be conscious of the food for fuel debate in this area. Does the Government have any plans to generate locally the 4% bio-fuel obligation it has put in place rather than importing bio-fuel? We are trying to increase our own resources and export bio-fuel in the long run.

A number of licences were issued to various people for the production of bio-fuels. Some have not started production or seem to have no plans to produce bio-fuels. Others, some of whom operated schemes which were up and running, sought licences but did not receive them. The Minister should re-examine the issue of to whom the licences were allocated. If those who did not receive a licence have continued to operate their schemes and need a licence, their situation should be regularised. The Minister should examine licensing issue.