Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 January 2024
67. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will report on the work of the Just Transition Commission; and the number meetings of the Commission in 2023. [3191/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra72. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications further to Parliamentary Question No. 83 of 28 September 2023, for an update on the work of the Just Transition Taskforce; if he has received any interim reports from the taskforce to-date; if he has received the final report of the taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3319/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 67 and 72 together.
The Government is committed to a just transition in order to ensure that nobody is left behind as Ireland transitions to a climate neutral economy by no later than 2050 in line with the National Climate Objective. Climate Action Plan 2023 also committed to the establishment a Just Transition Commission to provide advice to the Government on how to ensure a just transition.
In September 2023, I established a Just Transition Taskforce to make recommendations to me on the establishment of a Just Transition Commission. The Taskforce is comprised of representatives of the key social dialogue pillars (employers, trade unions, farming groups, social NGOs, and environmental NGOs), as well as the National Economic and Social Council and relevant Government Departments.
I have asked the Taskforce to report to me in the first quarter of this year with its advice and recommendations regarding the establishment of a Just Transition Commission, in line with the proposed mandate set out in Climate Action Plan 2023.
To develop these recommendations, the Taskforce has held a number of meetings to date to consider a range of issues, including the proposed mandate, structure and membership of a Just Transition Commission. The terms of reference and minutes of previous Taskforce meetings are available on my Department's website at www.gov.ie/en/publication/e3666-just-transition-taskforce/.
