Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2021
391. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if consideration has been given at EU Council of Foreign Ministers level to pursue an agenda of climate principles that deter carbon offshoring and thereby reduce global emissions to underpin trade and international relations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1408/21]
View answerThe Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union (FAC) has yet to deliberate on measures to deter carbon offshoring. The FAC is due to discuss the issue of Climate and Energy Diplomacy on 25 January and Council Conclusions are currently under negotiation. Following adoption of the Council Conclusions on the 25 January we can then look forward to presentation by the Commission of a proposal for a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, as planned for in the Commission's 2021 Work Programme. We are not aware at present of plans for such a proposal to be presented to or discussed at FAC.
The 2021 Work Programme of the Commission states an intention to align relevant climate and energy legislation with the newly proposed target to reduce emissions by at least 55% by 2030, as compared to 1990 levels. This is to be brought together in a “Fit for 55 Package” to implement the European Green Deal. As part of these measures the Commission will propose a carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) to help motivate foreign producers and EU importers to reduce their carbon emissions, while ensuring a level-playing field conducive to trade in a WTO-compatible way. This CBAM proposal is planned for the second quarter of 2021 (legislative, including impact assessment).
