Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 May 2021
142. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number in CO2 equivalents or other measure that corresponds to the commitment in the Programme for Government to reduce greenhouse gases by 7% per annum or 51% between 2021 and 2030; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22733/21]
View answerThe Programme for Government has a Green New Deal for Ireland as a core mission. It commits to an average 7% per annum reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions from 2021 to 2030 - a 51% reduction over the decade - and to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, the latter being consistent with EU 2050 ambition. I have also supported increased climate ambition at EU level through the European Green Deal, while asserting the importance of cost-effectiveness and fairness across Member States in pursuit of increased ambition. On 23 March 2021, the Government approved the final text of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill. Under this legislation, the first two carbon budgets proposed by the Climate Change Advisory Council shall provide for a reduction of 51% in the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions over the course of the first two budget periods ending on 31 December 2030, from the annual greenhouse gas emissions reported for the year ending on 31 December 2018, as set out in the national greenhouse gas emissions inventory prepared by the Agency. The legislation, which is a key commitment in the Programme for Government, is currently at second stage in the Dail and is a priority for Government.
