We have a short amount of time left before we commence another important debate. Deputy McLoughlin was to take Deputy Deering's Question No. 61. I propose that he will forgo the initial introduction, let the Minister answer and then I will let him make one comment before receiving another reply from the Minister.
Wednesday, 3 July 2019
Ceisteanna (61)
Freagraí ó Béal (3 píosaí cainte)
Pat Deering
Ceist:61. Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the details of the climate action adaptation plan recently launched by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28271/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Just last week, I launched a public consultation on the adaptation plan for the agriculture, forest and seafood sectors. This is our first statutory adaptation plan and it is about preparing our systems to deal with the inevitable changes in climate, including preparations for events such as flooding, fodder shortages or damage resulting from extreme weather storms in our harbours and forests.
The overall adaptation goal of this plan is to build resilience to the effects of climate change and weather-related events in the agriculture, forestry and seafood sectors, to reduce any negative impact where possible, to take advantage of any opportunity that may exist and to contribute to the achievement of the Department’s statement of strategy goals. The four overarching objectives to help achieve this goal are centred around ensuring a joined-up approach to adaptation planning, raising awareness of the impacts of climate change, reducing vulnerability and embedding adaptation planning in decision making.
The central element of the plan is the 13 case studies, which highlight examples of where the sector has been impacted by changing weather patterns, future projections and how we might see similar events happen, with a focus on steps to build resilience and reduce vulnerability to reductions in productivity. At all levels, our system must be prepared and must consider alternative options to manage our exposure to climate change risks. By taking steps to reduce exposure to prevent climate variability, we can inform future climate adaptation requirements and increase resilience.
I thank the Minister for his comments. I look forward to the outcome of the consultation on the climate action adaptation plan from his Department and to getting further details.