Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are discussing a group of amendments that would require the Minister, Deputy Kelly, to lay a range of reports in respect of domestic mitigation targets before the Houses. I have stated my position on this issue a number of times, but I will reiterate it to facilitate further progress on this important legislation. I do not accept the validity of establishing domestic mitigation targets that are divorced from the EU processes and, therefore, I cannot support the amendments. My focus is on securing enactment of the Bill as soon as possible in order that we can introduce Ireland's first national mitigation plan. In this plan, the emphasis will be on meeting our legally binding mitigation targets up to 2020 as part of the EU's effort-sharing decision, but we will also look ahead to 2030 in the new effort-sharing decision, yet to be agreed, and beyond that again to 2050 with the aim of substantially decarbonising the economy.

As we near the end of the debate on Report Stage, I restate the fact the Government has introduced a range of amendments to enhance the Bill's functions following extensive discussions on Second Stage and Committee Stage. Where reasoned and reasonable arguments have been made, the Government has listened and responded accordingly. For many years, there has been extensive debate about the shape of Ireland's first ever climate change legislation. As many Deputies have stated, action is required. The national mitigation plan will present an opportunity for all of society's stakeholders and citizens to produce a plan that is fit for purpose, sustainable and meets our needs while ensuring we reform and innovate in order that Ireland contributes significantly to the wider global challenge.

I do not agree with Deputy Clare Daly that doing nothing is sometimes better. There is a danger that if we do nothing, we will lose positive momentum on several fronts, namely, the national mitigation plan and the sectoral adaptation plans which are key to meeting the challenge facing us. We need to move on climate change now. This legislation will be an important vehicle in our delivery of that.

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