I propose to take Questions Nos. 135 and 136 together.
The Government has adopted, through the Climate Action Plan 2023 (CAP23), a framework for a just transition, comprising four principles:
An integrated, structured, and evidence-based approach to identify and plan our response to just climate transition requirements.
People are equipped with the right skills to be able to participate in and benefit from the future net zero economy.
The costs are shared so that the impact is equitable and existing inequalities are not exacerbated.
Social dialogue to ensure impacted citizens and communities are empowered and are core to the transition process.
As set out in CAP 2023, all relevant Ministers should consider this framework in the process of climate action policy formulation and implementation, so that policies are informed by the need to ensure a just transition. This includes creating sustainable employment opportunities, providing reskilling and retraining opportunities, and providing appropriate supports for those most vulnerable as part of Ireland’s transition to a climate neutral economy.
The Government has committed, through CAP 2023, to establishing a statutory Just Transition Commission, whose purpose should be to provide strategic advice to Government, integrating its role with existing governance and engagement structures, on how Government policy can further a just transition. I am continuing to progress the development of proposals in relation to the establishment of the Commission. This work has included engagement with relevant stakeholders to inform my approach to the mandate of the Commission, including through the National Climate Stakeholder Forum, the most recent meeting of which took place on 10 May last. The Government has also committed, through CAP 2023, to establishing a climate delivery taskforce, to focus on specific areas or initiatives of climate delivery that require cross-Government collaboration in ensuring a just transition.
