Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

It is good to have an opportunity to speak on this subject, which is very much in vogue. It was not in vogue much, however, during the recent general election campaign. I do not believe a question was raised by anybody, certainly as regards any of the areas I had an interest in — I had a passing interest in it at the time.

As a matter or urgency we need to recognise the extent of the problem. Global warming is here. Some of the actions we take may stall its onset or improve matters somewhat. There is a considerable body of scientific opinion, too, which challenges the consensus and argues that global warming is inevitable, follows its own sequence and will naturally correct itself over time. Therefore, I do not believe we should waste too much time worrying about it. What we have to do, however, is make a contribution——

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