Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 506: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he intends to take regarding the recent figures showing Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions began to rise in 2004 and that they are now 23.5 % higher than in 1990; the further action he intends to take regarding Ireland's current Kyoto commitment which is to limit the increase to 13 % before 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8021/06]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 513: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied that progress is being made by Ireland to achieve the targets set out in the Kyoto Protocol; his views on the effect of global warming on the environment here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8158/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 506 and 513 together.

I refer to the replies to Question No. 129 of 14 February 2006 and Question No. 331 of 15 February 2006.

The greenhouse gas emissions figures for 2004, recently published by the EPA, show a marginal increase of 0.45% on 2003. A detailed analysis of the data shows emissions increased in the transport, residential and processes sectors, but that reduced emissions were recorded in respect of power generation, industry and agriculture.

In reply to Question No. 331 of 15 February 2006, I indicated that I intend shortly to publish a review of the national climate change strategy as a consultation document to inform the preparation of a revised strategy. In regard to those sectors for which emissions increased between 2003 and 2004, this review will note that additional measures recently announced or implemented by the Government include the EU emissions trading scheme, the energy performance in buildings directive, Transport 21 and a package of excise relief for biofuels worth €200 million over five years.