Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 27 September 2017

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment

Estimates for Public Services 2017: Vote 29 - Communications, Climate Action and Environment

9:30 am

Photo of Denis NaughtenDenis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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I literally only got the presentation on my way in. Yes, I am sure we can provide copies.

I shall continue listing the key strategic areas, which also include the following: the integrated mapping for the integrated mapping of the sustainable development of Ireland's marine resource, INFOMAR, programme and the Tellus geo-environmental mapping project; protecting our natural environment and promoting the transition to a resource efficient circular economy; and progressing the climate action agenda in line with the first whole-of-Government national mitigation plan.

Looking forward, focus will be maintained on achieving targets in the areas of renewable energy and energy efficiency to combat climate change and contribute towards Ireland's 2020 targets. In progressing Ireland's transition to a low carbon economy, the further development of renewable energy across the electricity, heat and transport sectors will be critical to position us to meet the more challenging emissions targets for 2030.

Delivering a "connected" economy and society is a strategic priority. The national broadband plan will deliver a future-proofed telecoms network throughout Ireland. Expenditure on the State-led intervention will ramp up following the successful conclusion of the ongoing procurement process. Investment will be targeted at building on existing digital adoption initiatives aimed at businesses and citizens.

The sustainable management of waste and improved resource efficiency is critical for future generations. In the environmental area, the Environmental Protection Agency will continue to deliver on its research commitments and meet its expanded role in respect of ambient air quality, noise and non-ionising radiation monitoring, as well as the significant climate action agenda.