Ossian Smyth (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for the invitation to provide a statement on the Climate Action Plan 2023. I also thank all Deputies for their constructive and insightful contributions today, which are always welcome.

In closing, I wish to restate the significance of the climate action plan, which sets out the steps we must take to achieve our climate objective and to evolve into a more resilient, healthy and energy-secure society.

The climate action plan provides the sectoral emissions ceilings, which were approved in July of last year. They contain specific emissions reductions targets for the various sectors of our economy. The plan also provides an update on the progress that is being made in meeting Ireland's national climate objective. It seeks to identify any challenges or obstacles regarding this progress. Moreover, it sets out clear, tangible policies, measures and actions across all sectors to meet our climate goals and emission reduction targets.

The plan includes actions that will transform and improve life in Ireland. For example, we are going to generate enough power from renewable electricity to provide power for every home and business in the country by 2030. We will retrofit 500,000 homes across the country to BER B2 standard. Sustainable transport modes will account for half of all daily journeys in the country.

The science is very clear and definitive on the need for urgent action. The negative effects of climate change are already being experienced globally, and they will continue to increase exponentially in magnitude but also in volatility, along with global temperatures.

Additionally, I reiterate the Government's commitment to climate action, which will benefit Irish citizens. It will foster innovation, create new jobs and improve our overall quality of life. As we transition away from fossil fuels and progressively decarbonise, we will ensure that the way we decarbonise captures the unique opportunity to ensure a just transition which protects those who are most vulnerable. I again thank all Members for their contributions.

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