Noel Harrington (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 316: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the increased reports of excessive wear and damage to motor and agricultural vehicles engines being linked to the components of the bio-fuels being added to diesel fuel products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25707/11]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The only function I have in regard to biofuels relates to the Statutory Biofuel Obligation Scheme. The biofuel obligation applies to fuel for road transport only and does not apply to diesel used for "off-road" motor vehicles such as those used in the agricultural sector. Issues relating to fuel quality in the context of minimising our pollution emissions are a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

The National biofuel obligation level is currently set at 4 per cent on average for road transport fuel. This level is set to ensure that the fuel is fully compliant with the European EN590 standard for diesel and the European standard EN228 for petrol. These fuel standards are accepted by all makes and models of on-road vehicles.