221 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons charged with the illegal use of green diesel in 2003 and to date in 2004; the number of convictions secured; the different categories of charges and convictions in both periods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20221/04]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that their enforcement programmes include ones aimed at detecting the illegal use of marked gas oil. The following table gives the details of the proceedings initiated and of the number of convictions secured in 2003 and in 2004 to date. Additionally it provides details of the charges involved.