Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 233: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if any thought has been given to the use of home produced bio-fuels for public transport vehicles with a view to reducing dependence on imported oil; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20368/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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My Department is responsible for the promotion and development of renewable energy including biofuels. I am committed to the development and promotion of a biofuels market in Ireland's transport fuel sector and to the development of alternative fuels which can contribute to emissions reductions and security of supply. My Department recently advertised a pilot biofuels mineral oil tax relief scheme designed to produce biofuel or test the technical viability of biofuel for use as motor fuel. The applications received are being assessed.

While all policy options for the development of biofuels in Ireland are being considered by my Department, the use of biofuels for public transport vehicles is primarily a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Transport.