Fiach MacConghail (Independent)
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I thank the witnesses for the presentation and I apologise for arriving late. One question arising from Deputy Nash's question is whether Trócaire is against the use of the four figures as stipulated in head 6 as ex officio members. Are the witnesses clearly stating that these figures, including the director general of the agency, should not be a part of the expert committee?

I get a sense that the purpose and drive of the presentation concerned climate justice, which is clearly related to Trócaire's very important international role. Do the witnesses have any comment on the challenges facing economic growth in Ireland, and specifically a possible clash between Food Harvest 2020 and targets that may be inserted in the Bill? I ask this with regard to the agriculture and energy areas. I know Trócaire has international expertise in this regard.

However, I wish to hear the witness's view on the domestic challenges in that regard.

Finally, clearly the witness's point of view is from the perspective of development and foreign affairs. The Tánaiste was quoted as saying that Ireland could be one of the first countries in the EU to enshrine climate change targets in domestic law. Does the witness have a view on which Department should have this in its remit? At present, it is within the remit of the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, but as these hearings continue we are continually reminded that it has an impact across all Departments. Does the witness have a view on how this might be implemented differently from what is in the Bill?