Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent)
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I move amendment No. 27:

In page 7, between lines 6 and 7, to insert the following: “ ‘social justice’ means that the requirements that decisions and actions taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to adopt to the effects of climate change shall ensure that the development goes hand-in-hand with social justice in a manner which protects Irish people against financial hardship, such as the ability of families to pay the bills, put food on the table, and afford necessities;”.

This is self-explanatory to a point. We have serious concerns about aspects of this Bill. People in rural Ireland are struggling just to pay bills and put food on the table. They are now being hit with this carbon tax, which will add a further €100, €150 or €200 per year to a home heating oil bill. There is no solution for ordinary working families because they will probably be above the income threshold and ineligible to receive favourable warmer home grants. There are contractors who are worried they cannot afford to continue their daily work. It is fine to say the country is tackling issues, but there are no solutions. We will keep tabling amendments to create solutions. We would appreciate it if the Minister considered supporting them or at least proposed solutions. For example, people cannot use bales of briquettes from Ireland anymore but briquettes can be imported from abroad. That is not a solution. It is only a nod-and-wink exercise. There are many other examples to which I could point. I would appreciate it if this amendment was accepted.