Climate Change Remains Top Priority For Govt

Climate change remains a top priority for the government, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan, has said.

Welcoming the reassurance, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Mid-West, Derek Keating, said: "Upon coming into Government, a National Climate Change Adaptation Framework was put in place in 2012. Earlier this year the publication of the final Heads of the Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill, together with the National Policy Position, underlined Fine Gael’s commitment to providing certainty on national climate policy and legislation.

"The Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill provides for the establishment of an Expert Advisory Body, this allows for a broad range of expertise to come together to discuss the climate change debate in a transparent and inclusive manner.  

The body will advise the Minister Hogan and make recommendations on meeting any climate change obligations, required by EU law.

"Climate policy must be an on-going process and the Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill and National Policy Position will set us on the right path over the period to 2050," Deputy Keating said.

Adding: "The Bill will contain provisions specifically requiring the Minister for the Environment to make, and submit to Government, a National Low Carbon Roadmap.   I have been assured by the Minister that he will initiate a consultation process on the Roadmap this year.  

"Minister Hogan has outlined to me the importance of striking a balance between economic growth and environmental considerations. This work is underway, the legislation is on the way and it will be progressed through the Oireachtas as quickly as possible."

(MH/CD)