Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 November 2021
203. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which his Department has evaluated the potential negative impact of meeting carbon reduction targets; the degree to which amelioration measures can be utilised to assist in meeting such targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53892/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra204. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which he and his Department continue to consult with his Ministerial colleagues with a view to meeting carbon reduction targets while avoiding potentially permanent damage to the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53893/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra205. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which he continues to consult with the relevant Minister and the agri-food producing sector with a view to ensuring that carbon reduction targets can be met while at the same time meeting economic targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53894/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra208. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the extent to which his Department has studied a report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53898/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 203 to 205, inclusive, and 208 together.
The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 commits Ireland to a legally binding target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions no later than 2050, and a reduction of 51% by 2030.
The Climate Action Plan 2021 will put Ireland on a more sustainable path, cutting emissions, creating a cleaner, greener economy and society and protecting us from the devastating consequences of climate change. The Plan sets out indicative ranges of emissions reductions for each sector of the economy based on their respective starting points, and the relative difficulty, cost, speed, and benefits, of reducing emissions. It also sets out the actions needed to deliver on our climate targets, across all economic sectors, including agriculture, transport and enterprise. My Department has engaged proactively with the public, stakeholders, and other Government Departments in preparing the Plan.
The Government will support the changes through major public investment announced recently in the €165bn National Development Plan, including increased funding for retrofitting our homes, building new public transport, reskilling workers, and supporting a just transition.
