Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

On the retrofitting, as pointed out by one of the union representatives these jobs are not guaranteed. What we are hearing here is airy-fairy stuff. We need solid commitments, including in respect of funding. I reiterate my call to the Minister to ensure that the carbon tax revenue is ring-fenced for the midlands region and that, as proposed, the commissioner will be on the ground in Offaly, which is particularly badly affected. I acknowledge that parts of Laois and Longford will also be affected.

I would like an update on the application to the EU coal regions in transition platform. This application which was only commenced in 2017 should have been made years ago. We are trying to do our best here but the Minister needs to take responsibility for what in my view is the most unjust transition ever. It is an insult to call it a just transition.

See this speech in context