The President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Paul Mallee, praised the Government’s commitment to promoting transport fuel alternatives and called on them to further incentivise this innovative sector in line with their Smart Economy strategy. In doing so, he said, Ireland could become a “global test bed for alternative transport fuels.”

Dr Brian Caulfield of the School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin warned, however, that research undertaken by the Centre for Transport Studies showed that price remains the key determining factor for the public in considering the purchase of alternatively fuelled vehicles.  Dr Caulfield commented, “While environmental issues were found to be important, the results of his research show that cost is the most important factor when encouraging people to purchase an alternatively fuelled car.”

Other speakers at the debate included representatives from Bord Gais, ESB, and transport and logistics operators. The debate was chaired by Irish Times Environment Editor, Frank McDonald.

In his address Minister Cuffe commented, “In recent months the Government has signed a second memorandum of with a major manufacturer to promote the development of the electric vehicle industry in Ireland. This clearly demonstrates our commitment to strengthen and develop Ireland’s international position as a first-mover for this innovative sector and a pioneer in cleaner, greener transport.

“We are fully committed to the roll-out of alternative transport options, and I have made this a priority issue during my term as Minister for Sustainable Transport.”

CILT President Paul Mallee added, “The transport sector must capitalise on the Government’s enthusiasm for sustainable transport options and demonstrate the added-value this can bring in terms of fostering growth and supporting their Smart Economy strategy.

“Developments in this area are likely to focus on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles as the forerunner to electric vehicles, but progress in this area remains painstakingly slow due to cost implications. Bio-fuels or compressed natural gas forming part of the fuel mix will also provide for transition or even longer term solutions. Now is the time to consider the options.

“Our industry must work with Government to identify ways of incentivising and prioritising its development. In doing so, this will help create jobs in an emerging high-end sector, alongside the obvious environmental benefits. Ireland should become a test bed and pioneer in developing transport fuel alternatives.”