Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 235: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will improve and expand tax and excise conditions for biofuel producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33535/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Policy in respect of the promotion or development of biofuels is primarily a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. However, I do acknowledge that tax can play a role in the promotion of biofuels and in this regard, the Deputy is aware that there is the current duty exemption scheme for pilot projects in the biofuels area. The number of applications made for relief from excise duty under the pilot scheme clearly indicates that there is a strong interest in developing a biofuels industry in Ireland. As the Deputy is aware, it is a long-standing practice of the Minister for Finance not to comment in advance of the budget on possible budget decisions.