Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Just a couple of questions. A meeting on climate policy was organised by the ICMSA recently. A scientist who attended stated unequivocally that Ireland was likely to be a net emitter by 2030 under LULUCF regulations as we are losing carbon through deforestation and the continued destruction of peatlands. Does Mr. Lucas agree with this assessment? What steps is the Department taking as part of the peatlands strategy to reverse carbon losses? That is probably to outline the peatland plan already referred to. Dr. Renou-Wilson stated that Ireland could lock in ten times more carbon if the habitats directive were properly implemented to protect blanket bogs. Does Mr. Lucas agree and what would that mean in terms of work?