Abstract: A method and apparatus adjust pilot fuel injection timing in relation to a main fuel injection timing into a piston cylinder of an operating gaseous-fuelled direct injection internal combustion engine using high levels of EGR. A set of engine parameters are monitored which determine engine load and engine speed and an indicator of EGR concentration within the intake charge. Pilot fuel timing relative to main fuel injection timing is then adjusted according to the engine parameters. High levels of EGR are shown to be tolerated with relatively limited penalties in relation to other emissions typically found with high EGR by reducing the relative injection timing the pilot fuel as compared to main fuel injection timing.