Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
1614. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Health how he will ensure the HSE delivers on its commitment in line with Climate Action Plan 2023 and legally binding commitments under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Acts 2015-2021. [37691/23]
View answerThe Government’s Climate Action Plan 2023 sets out the energy efficiency and energy related Green House Gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets which Public Sector Bodies in Ireland are legally obliged to meet.
The Department of Health and the bodies under its aegis, as with all public bodies, provide regular reports and updates in relation to their progress in achieving the objectives set out in the Climate Action Plan.
In addition, the HSE launched their own Climate Action Strategy 2023-2050 in June 2023, which outlines a broad approach to climate adaptation and mitigation, building on the actions and targets set out in the Government’s Climate Action Plan 2023 and providing a clear Climate Action roadmap for the HSE.
The HSE strategy was developed in a collaborative manner, with engagement from internal and external stakeholders, including the Department of Health.
The delivery of the Strategy’s ambitious objectives is overseen by an overarching Climate Action Steering Group which reports directly to the HSE Executive Management Team and Board. An implementation plan, which will drive action across workstreams which align with the Strategy’s key priority areas of work and strategic objectives, has also been developed. This will be supported by a communications & training function as well as a measurement function.
The HSE is committed to complying with the actions and targets set out in the Climate Action Plan 2023. Their programme of work will also be continuously reviewed against any emerging legislation, World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations, and against emerging national and sectoral policies.
