Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 November 2021
211. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he expects decisions at international level in respect of climate change to ensure an equal distribution of the economy insofar as climate change measures may do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53901/21]
View answerIreland is committed to concerted global actions to address the climate crisis and engages in negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement through its membership of the European Union (EU). Ireland has actively engaged with EU partners in preparation for the 26th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP26) in Glasgow which commenced on 31 October and will conclude on 12 November 2021. I will lead Ireland’s National Delegation for the continuation of the high-level segment during the second week of COP26.
Ireland is committed to playing an active and constructive role at the COP this year, particularly on issues linked to our climate priorities and with the intention of illustrating greater strategic coherency between our international climate agenda and our domestic climate ambition.
The scientific evidence demonstrates that the atmosphere is warming and the climate is changing with each passing year. These changes will cause extensive direct and indirect harm to Ireland and its people, as well as to other countries more exposed and less able than we are to withstand the associated impacts. This year’s COP is crucial in ensuring that climate action is taken in a manner that balances considerations of fairness, cost effectiveness and solidarity, ensuring that no one is left behind.
In an Irish economic context, more proactive capacity to manage transition based on enhanced support in areas such as worker development, enterprise resilience, and funding will be required. Lifelong learning, training and education, effective support for viable but vulnerable companies, and ensuring that funding has the greatest possible local impact is a priority.
