Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I published the national climate policy review on 3 November 2011. The review is an important stock-take and is intended to provide the basis for a national debate on future policy development. Building on that foundation, I intend to progress the policy agenda in three interconnected ways.

First, the Government has decided to ask the secretariat to the National Economic and Social Council to carry out an independent analysis to inform advancement of the national mitigation agenda in line with our EU commitments and with a view to developing a longer-term plan for a low-carbon future. I expect this work to be finalised by the end of 2012.

Second, I will initiate a consultation early in 2012 to ensure the widest possible range of views and ideas inform future policy. Getting climate policy right is vital to the future success of the economy as well as ensuring that Ireland plays its part in contributing to EU and global efforts to avoid dangerous climate change. It is my view that all citizens and stakeholder groups should engage in this process so we have a truly national policy position as we move into the post-2012 period.

Finally, and concurrently, I will continue working with my ministerial colleagues to identify actions that can be taken to make real mitigation progress in the short and medium term.

It is my objective, in line with the programme for Government, to introduce climate legislation within the lifetime of this Government. As indicated in the Government legislative programme, I expect it will be 2012 at the earliest before any legislation can be published, taking account of the need also to progress the broader climate policy agenda under the aegis of the Cabinet committee on climate change and the green economy.

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