Mr. Mithika Mwenda:

It is a big challenge for a country like Ireland to reduce emissions, yet sustain its economy and move to low-carbon development pathways. The discussion the world over - this is the topic of our discussions - is on how to move on from emissions reduction. There is a particular debate on low-carbon development pathways and how to do this is a dilemma. It is indisputable that the current model of development is unsustainable. Our proposal is that there are ways to do this. We need to start avoiding profligate lifestyles and to pursue agriculture in such a way that we reduce emissions. The citizens of a country need to discuss how to do this. The Bill provides a very good opportunity for discussion, but in its current form, it is weak. We need to learn from Scotland which has a very ambitious law. It is important to look at it and see how it is being put into practice.