Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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573. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the delays in regulatory approval for the proposed compressed natural gas pumps at a filling station (details supplied); if he will take steps to expedite its opening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43740/18]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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I am very aware of the significant role that compressed natural gas  (CNG), particularly as a pathway towards renewable gas, can potentially play in reducing emissions from the transport sector.  I was very pleased that in Budget 2019, the Minister for Finance announced the introduction of Accelerated Capital Allowances for natural gas fuelled vehicles and vehicle refuellers, further underpinning the Government's support for natural gas as a vehicle fuel.

I am informed that the first proposed commercial compressed natural gas (CNG) pumps have been installed at the Topaz Filling Station in Dublin Port. I understand that commissioning of the pumps is subject to necessary regulatory approval and that these processes are ongoing. The determination of individual planning applications is a matter for the relevant local authority.  As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have no role in any of these processes.