Joanna Tuffy (Dublin Mid West, Labour)
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Question 64: To ask the Minister for Transport the level of transport emissions the aviation sector here is currently responsible for; if he is supporting the inclusion of the aviation sector in the EU's Emissions Trading Scheme; if he plans measures in the upcoming sustainable travel action plan specifically to target aviation emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9638/08]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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Figures in respect of carbon emissions from aviation can be accessed on the following website: Sustainable Energy Ireland: http://www.sei.ie

Sustainable Energy Ireland estimate that aviation in Ireland accounted for 2,953.4 kilotonnes CO2 or 18.3% of total transport emissions in 2006. The level of emissions from aviation is calculated using aviation kerosene sales in the State as a proxy.

The Government supports, in principle, having regard to Ireland's peripheral status, the inclusion of aviation emissions in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). My colleague, the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government is working with other EU Member States in the Environment Council of Ministers to include aviation in the EU ETS on the basis of the draft legislative proposal presented by the European Commission in 2006.

I have embarked on a public consultation process in relation to a Sustainable Travel and Transport Action Plan and have referred to aviation emissions in the issues document, which is available on www.sustainabletravel.ie. I want to evaluate all responses received before making any commitment on the final Action Plan which I expect will be considered by Government in 2008.