Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 23: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if further use of biofuels will be encouraged for vehicles within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36616/05]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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At the launch of the Interim Review of Implementation of the National Biodiversity Plan 2002-06 on 4 November 2005, I announced the phased conversion to biofuels of the 160-strong fleet of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department over the next two years.

As the Minister responsible for Ireland's emissions under the Kyoto Protocol, I believe this announcement represents a timely demonstration of my commitment to meeting these obligations. I also regard the announcement as an important biodiversity-friendly initiative and one that can contribute to the provision of alternative means of livelihood for Ireland's farmers over time.