Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am well aware of the concerns that commuters and, in particular, those who use their cars in rural Ireland have about changes in carbon pricing. I was involved in this debate this time last year and, as we approach budget day again, I am very much aware of the concerns commuters will have, as well as the concerns of people who do not have the kinds of public transport options that people in our larger cities have. Nevertheless, I am equally aware, as are many of the people the Deputy referred to, of the pressing need to change how our economy and country flow in order that we can play our part in responding to the change to the climate taking place in front of us. My commitment and what I am looking to do, subject to approval by the House, in respect of any changes we make to carbon taxation, is that those on the lowest incomes will be on the top of our agenda for how we will support them at a time of change. I understand the Deputy's concerns and why he raised them but we are examining the great challenge of how we can respond to what is now happening to our climate.

See this speech in context