As set out under the Programme for Government, the Climate Action (Amendment) Bill 2019 is being drafted as a priority, and will be published within the first 100 days of this Government.
The amending legislation will establish the Climate Action Council (CAC) as a successor to the Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC). The new CAC will have a strengthened role in advising on appropriate carbon budgets, and continue to be independent in the performance of its functions. As set out in the 2019 Climate Action Plan, the system of carbon budgeting can commence on an administrative basis in advance of the new amendment Bill becoming law later this year.
The CCAC was established by Ministerial Order (S.I. No 25 of 2016) on 18 January 2016 pursuant to section 8 of the Climate Change and Low Carbon Development Act 2015. On the passing of the Amendment Act later this year, any member of the Council with less than 5 years’ service will continue as a member of the newly constituted CAC until he/she has served the period of appointment as was determined by the Minister. It is also envisaged that the Director of the Irish Meteorological Service, Met Éireann will become a fifth ex-officio member of the Council, providing additional scientific expertise.
As Minister for Climate Action, I will nominate future members of the Council for appointment by the Government. In doing so, I will have regard to the range of qualifications, expertise and experience necessary for the effective performance of the expanded functions of the Council, as well as ensuring insofar as is practicable that there is an equitable gender balance.
