Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge all the Deputies who contributed to the debate on this Bill. I accept that not everybody is happy with what is in the Bill, but I am satisfied that adequate opportunity for debate was provided and that we had a robust debate on the amendments that were proposed.

I acknowledge the support of Deputy Stanley, who said we cannot afford to delay another day. As he said, this historic legislation sets out a framework or roadmap for this country as it seeks to advance and decarbonise its economy in many ways. Many critical matters feed into that. The national mitigation plan, about which I spoke in great detail during the debate, is an essential mechanism if we are to achieve decarbonisation in this country and to meet the climate change challenge that faces our citizens and people all over the world. There is no doubt that Ireland will have to and will play its part in meeting that challenge. The sectoral adaptation plan will afford the sectoral interests in this country an opportunity to engage in a proactive way and to assist in reducing our carbon emissions. I do not doubt that we will have to use all our resources, including our best brains in academia and our best practitioners, to bring forward technological innovation and reform where necessary to reduce carbon emissions in all these sectors.

I am under no illusions regarding the challenge that remains. The Deputies opposite will acknowledge that this is not a political issue. It is a global issue that demands a response from us all. I am happy that this historic legislation was introduced by this Government. I look forward to bringing it to the Upper House. Further debate across society is to be welcomed. I encourage debate at all levels on how people can find ways to make a contribution in order that Ireland plays its part in the global context. I commend the Bill. I am glad it is being passed by the Dáil. I look forward to bringing it to the Seanad.

See this speech in context