Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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1170. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if possible restrictions to diesel fuel motor vehicles could come into effect here, as seen in continental Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14180/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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​Ireland faces a significant challenge to meet our international greenhouse gas reduction commitments; at present, three quarters of all journeys are made by private car, accounting for over 55% of our transport emissions, and the demand for transport is growing. I am committed to meeting as much of this growing demand as possible through increasing public transport capacity and supply; encouraging modal shift towards more sustainable and active travel modes; and promoting the deployment and uptake of new technologies and alternative fuels.

Technology will undoubtedly offer one of the most efficient and cost effective pathways to achieving our mitigation and air quality objectives. Advances in battery technology, fuel science, increasing market competition and lowering vehicle costs will accelerate uptake of low carbon alternatives. To ensure that Ireland is in a position to adapt quickly to this developing market my Department will shortly publish a National Policy Framework on Alternative Fuels Infrastructure reflecting the role of refuelling infrastructure in securing this transition. In conjunction with the Department of Communication, Climate Action and Environment, we have convened a Low Emissions Vehicle Task Force to consider the range of measures and options available to Government for the purpose of accelerating the deployment of low carbon technologies, especially EVs. Additionally, there is a range of complementary policies currently under development: the National Mitigation Plan, the National Clean Air Strategy and the National Planning Framework.

I am aware of moves by some other jurisdictions to ban the sales of conventionally fuelled vehicles from 2030 or, in some cases, 2025. We are also ambitious that all new cars sold into Ireland post 2030 will be zero emissions or zero emissions capable.