Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 December 2021
142. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the engagement he has had to date with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to supporting and promoting efforts at local government level on climate action, particularly in relation to County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59902/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn July 2021, the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act was enacted. Ireland is now on a legally binding path to climate neutrality by no later than 2050. The Act strengthens the role of Local Authorities for effective climate action. It sets out legislative requirements for each Local Authority to prepare a Climate Action Plan, which will include both mitigation and adaptation measures, and be updated every five years. These plans will have to be consistent with national climate plans and strategies, and Local Authorities will have to liaise with each other in the preparation of these plans. My Department is currently working with the Climate Action Regional Offices (CAROs), the EPA, and other stakeholders to develop appropriate guidelines for the making of these plans.
My Department engages with all four CAROs and stakeholders, including representatives from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on a regular basis, in particular through participation in the National Local Authority Climate Action Steering Group. Cork County Council is the lead authority of the Atlantic Seaboard South CARO. Each CARO is working with each Local Authority within its region, to both facilitate and monitor implementation of local climate actions undertaken under local adaptation strategies, and the Climate Charter developed under the 2019 Climate Action Plan. The CARO website is available at www.caro.ie
My Department is also funding the implementation of the new Local Authority climate action training programme. This programme is increasing knowledge of climate change, and the need for action by all Local Authorities in the areas of both climate mitigation and adaptation.
