Bid to impose 5% limit on biofuels made from arable crops rejected

European farmers and co-ops have rejected a move to impose a 5% limit on the use of biofuels made from arable crops in 2020.

The issue was also raised in the Dáil by the former agriculture minister Brendan Smith who asked Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore if he supports the European Commission proposals.

Minister of State Joe Costello said in a written reply that he shares concerns that biofuel production, unless properly regulated, can have a negative impact on food production, and on food prices.