Irish failing ‘spectacularly’ in response to climate change

Ireland has “failed spectacularly” in its response to the challenges posed by climate change over the last 15 years, the Citizens’ Assembly has been told.

The Citizens’ Assembly is considering how the State can
become a leader in tackling climate change over the weekend.

The assembly, which is considering how the State can become a leader in tackling climate change, heard that failing to adequately respond to global warming could soon end up costing Ireland millions, and potentially billions, in fines.

“Ireland has failed spectacularly on climate change over the past 15 years,” said researcher Joseph Curtin of UCC and the Institute of International and European Affairs. “It has not stepped up to the plate. Let’s be realistic; start by doing our fair share, then we can aspire to leadership.”

Mr Curtin said Ireland was not on target to meet any of its targets “under EU and UN processes” but that most countries were doing their bit when it came to reducing carbon emissions and adopting renewable energy sources.

Read Kevin O’Sullivan’s story in The Irish Times - “Irish failing ‘spectacularly’ in response to climate change.”