Climate change is a top priority for Government – Keating

Fine Gael TD for Dublin Mid-West, Derek Keating, has, today (Thursday), welcomed assurances from the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD, that climate change remains a top priority for Government.

“After a number of queries from the public, I have raised the issue of climate change with Minister Hogan and I am pleased to confirm that climate change remains a priority.

“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 Expert Body will advise and make recommendations to the Minister in relation to compliance with any climate related obligation of the State under EU law or any international agreement.  

“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.   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. “