Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 April 2024
134. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if Ireland accepts the recent decision of the European Court of Human Rights in the Swiss climate case; if so, whether any policy changes will arise from that determination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17137/24]
View answer138. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department will review the climate action plan to take into account the recent decision of the European Court of Human Rights in the Swiss climate case; his views on whether any policy changes will arise from that determination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17140/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 134 and 138 together.
The Government notes and accepts the ruling delivered by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in relation to case of Verein Klimaseniorinnen Schweiz v Switzerland, and is reviewing its outcome, in close consultation with the Office of the Attorney General. In advance of this review occurring fully, it is not possible to determine what, if any, impact the ruling could have on the policy of the Government.
Although the Government shares the environmental concerns of the applicants, the global climate crisis cannot best be addressed by litigation, but instead requires collaborative global efforts – efforts to which this Government is strongly committed.
The severity of the threat facing the global community, as a result of climate change, and the urgent need for action cannot be denied. Climate change – as an urgent, complex and multifaceted challenge – needs an effective global response. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (‘UNFCCC’) and its instruments, including the Paris Agreement, is the dedicated international framework governing climate change at a global level.
Ireland considers that it is through this framework – and decisions taken at annual COPs (Conferences of the Parties) and regional, national and local actions – that the international community can most effectively respond.
Ireland remains committed to reaching the goals of the Paris Agreement, and championing progressive global action. Equity, rights-based approaches and just transition underpin our actions.
The Government is committed to addressing the crisis of climate change domestically, as well as internationally, including as an EU Member State.
Ireland’s Climate Act (2021) places our ambitious climate and emissions objectives on statutory footing. The Act also sets out the governance framework, to support us in achieving our goals of climate resilience, environmental sustainability and carbon neutrality.
Climate Action Plan 2024 was approved by Government before the end of last year, subject to Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Appropriate Assessment (AA). A public consultation is currently underway. This plan sets out how Ireland will speed up action to respond to the climate crisis, reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.
