Marc Ó Cathasaigh (Waterford, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Last month the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change launched its landmark report setting out in clear terms the urgent need for radical climate action. It did so against the backdrop of the consequences of a climate-altered world being played out in real time, with heat records shattered in Italy, Canada and Northern Ireland, with Hurricane Ida crashing into the Louisiana coast and subsequently flooding the New York subway system, with devastating floods sweeping through northern Europe and with wildfires raging from California to Greece to Siberia. That report is not equivocal in its findings.

The window for action on climate change is closing and the consequences of inaction are catastrophic. In the words of the UN Secretary General, the report is a code red for humanity. If this seems tangential to tonight's debate, it is not. The Government has significant work to get done, not least of which is action on climate change but also in the areas of health, housing and myriad other challenges posed by the social and economic fallout from the pandemic. We have a programme for Government, which is the most ambitious in the history of the State. We have followed through with important legislative work, from the LDA Act to the climate Act. Now we must concentrate on delivery and on translating legislation into action. This is all being done in the context of doing our utmost to protect lives and livelihoods as we steer our course through a global pandemic. This is the work we have in front of us as a Government. I believe this work is important and for that reason I will vote confidence in this Government.

The issues surrounding the proposed appointment of Ms Zappone have been well ventilated at this point. The process leading to the appointment was unsatisfactory and should have been handled in a more transparent manner. The Minister has acknowledged he made a number of mistakes, has apologised and has twice appeared before the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence. All this is well known. However, it is my opinion that a vote of no confidence would be in no way proportionate.

With respect to the Minister's brief, this vote comes at a critical juncture. From the ongoing effect of Brexit to our seat on the UN Security Council to the unfolding situation in Afghanistan, he has demonstrated his experience and expertise on all these issues. I have full confidence in his ability to continue in these ministerial duties. We have been promised change and a new politics from the Opposition benches. In tonight's debate, I only see populist Punch and Judy politics, aimed at sowing discord among coalition partners. The issues facing us as a Government and a country are too serious and urgent. They deserve better from all here.

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