Seanad debates

Tuesday, 23 March 2010

Energy (Biofuel Obligation and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2010: Report Stage.

 

4:00 am

Photo of Joe O'ReillyJoe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I join Senator Walsh in thanking the Minister for engaging the House on this Bill. Not only was he present for most of our deliberations but he also responded to our arguments. I do not propose to rehearse these arguments other than to note that our objectives are to reduce carbon emissions, improve our overall environment and create jobs with enhanced incomes.

I am satisfied with the Minister's responses to our Report Stage amendments. He outlined the spirit in which he will act when introducing ministerial regulations in respect of supporting domestic production and processing. I am also pleased he is prepared to consider the novel proposition put forward by my colleague, Senator Bradford, on including the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the regulatory process in order that farmers are incentivised as primary producers. It is heartening that the Minister, Deputy Gormley, is prepared to go beyond Senator Walsh's "shall" to assure us that our objective of creating a level playing pitch will be achieved in the regulations.

From my party's perspective, I am pleased with the outcome of our deliberations on this Bill because our main ambition is to create jobs. It was the sole theme of our conference last weekend and giving people the dignity of work remains our central policy objective. This is the means by which we will build an exciting, healthy and happy society and a strong economy. I thank the Minister for his courtesy in engaging with Members.

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