Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 26: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will enter into discussions to direct and encourage in every possible way local authorities to set targets for the reduction of their CO2 emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16607/06]

Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 32: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will meet with local authorities to encourage the use of low emission and environmentally friendly vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16608/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 32 together.

Local authorities have an important role in contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, through their functions in relation to planning, transport, housing and waste disposal. National targets for reduced greenhouse gas emissions in these sectors are set out in the National Climate Change Strategy. While it is not proposed to direct local authorities to set targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions on a functional area basis, it is open to each local authority to set their own targets for emission reductions.

In relation to the use of low emission and environmentally friendly vehicles, I do not have any plans to meet with local authorities specifically in relation to this matter. My Department already issues broad advice and information to local authorities on the inclusion of environmental criteria in their tendering processes, which are subject to obligations under the EU public procurement directives.

The Department of Finance, which has responsibility for national public procurement policy, has issued comprehensive information on all aspects of public procurement including guidance for public bodies on how environmental considerations may be taken into account and promoted in public procurement. Furthermore, the EU Handbook on Environmental Public Procurement, published in October 2004, sets out how environmental considerations, including the procurement of cleaner, more fuel-efficient transport services, can be integrated into public procurement decisions.