Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 June 2022
97. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to establish a Just Transition Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28478/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is committed to a just transition in order to ensure that nobody is left behind as we strive to transition to a climate neutral economy. The significant structural changes required across large parts of the economy will affect different groups in society in different ways, and tailored and targeted responses are required to ensure that this transition is fair and equitable for all and that existing inequalities are not exacerbated. The Climate Action Plan 2021 (CAP 2021) sets out a just transition framework to guide our approach to implementing our climate action policies. The framework is made up of four principles:
1. An integrated, structured, and evidence-based approach to identify and plan our response to just climate transition requirements.
2. People are equipped with the right skills to be able to participate in and benefit from the future net-zero economy.
3. The costs are shared so that the impact is equitable and existing inequalities are not exacerbated.
4. Social dialogue to ensure impacted citizens and communities are empowered and are core to the transition process.
Under CAP 2021, the Government has also committed to establishing a statutory Just Transition Commission. To inform the approach for the legislation, I am developing a policy approach for the mandate of the proposed Commission. I envisage that the Commission will support the Government in implementing its climate policies through:
1. Monitoring progress and making recommendations in relation to the implementation of the just transition framework across Government.
2. Commissioning research, and identifying research needs, in order to facilitate evidence-based decision making across Government regarding a just transition.
3. Providing advice and support to the Minister and Government in relation to stakeholder participation and dialogue in a manner which effectively integrates just transition considerations.
4. Examining just transition challenges arising in specific sectors and developing recommendations on potential solutions to address these challenges. I intend to engage further with stakeholders during the coming months, to further inform the Government's approach to the proposed legislation. I expect to be in a position to bring forward the General Scheme of the required legislation by the end of this year.
