Pauline O'Reilly (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. He mentioned the Citizens' Assembly. We should recognise that while we have done huge work as a committee, and we have done huge work in the Seanad and Dáil in passing an ambitious climate Act, that started with activists and with the citizens who gave the recommendations. It is appropriate that we hear from citizens on an ongoing basis.

As the Minister said, the challenge is not only about setting the target. The challenge is meeting that target. We all have to work together to do that. It is not going to be easy but it is absolutely essential. In my part of the country, Galway, we have a piece of artwork that shows at what level the water will be if we do not act. It is a visual representation that is helpful to everybody. It is also important, however, that we continue to hear from young people in our daily lives.

I wish to recognise the other members of the Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action who are here to listen today. They will come in and contribute later. What has been fantastic about this committee is that we worked in a cross-party and genuine way because irrespective of which party we are from, we are all really passionate about climate action and the environment. I am the chair of the Green Party and Deputy Leddin is also a member of the party but members from most of the political parties will make statements today. Without further ado, we will hear from the young people. Ms Doireann Walsh from Youth Work Ireland has the floor.