Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 30 May 2001

Vol. 537 No. 3

Written Answers. - Kyoto Protocol.

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

81 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the Government's position on the recently announced US decision not to be bound by the principles of the Kyoto Accord; the common position of the European Community in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12908/01]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 1 of 5 April 2001.

The EU considers the Kyoto Protocol to be the only international instrument and political basis for combating climate change. In light of the US position, which is of great concern to the EU, intensive international consultations are ongoing in the lead up to the resumption of negotiations at the 6th Conference of the Parties in Bonn in July. In that context, the EU has indicated a willingness to be flexible, while maintaining a firm position on early ratification and entry into force of the protocol. Ireland continues to participate constructively in the international negotiations as part of the overall EU position.