Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

I want to correct any impression that might have been given that this is all heading for Africa. It is very important we go beyond this legislation, which is sending out the wrong signals. It is quite irresponsible economically, in that it is presuming that we will buy carbon credits for perhaps €10 or €15, or maybe €20. It is a flexible and fluctuating situation. The Stern report, however, suggests we could be looking at $85 per tonne of carbon dioxide. The Minister can nod his head as much as he likes, but I do not see him deciding the price. The Minister has given much credit to the Stern report and I agree it is an important breakthrough study. If Stern is saying $85, then we need to take it seriously.

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