Thursday, December 16, 2010

Ireland’s Climate Change Bill Agreed

Mr John Gormley TD Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government today (16 December 16) outlined the details of the proposed Climate Change Bill. 

The bill provides a framework for legislation on the transition to a low-carbon future.  There will be a short-term target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average 2.5% per year, compared to 2008 emissions.

A further medium-term target will be introduced to reduce emissions by 40% by 2030 and a long-term target of 80% by 2050.  Climate policy objectives and obligations will be integrated into sectoral policy areas, and sectoral mitigation and adaptation plans will be required for relevant sectors.

Mr Gormley said: "The Bill is relatively short but I believe that it represents a milestone step forward for climate policy in Ireland.  "Its balance of clarity and progressiveness will make it easily accessible and highly effective.

"I appreciate that there will be some who have concerns about the Bill but I believe they have nothing to fear from such legislation.  "I look forward to the early publication of the bill and positive engagement from the opposition in order to provide a potent piece of legislation that will serve us into the future." More >>>