Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

No, it is the new reality. This summer we saw the world was burning and we are all at risk. Our future security must be protected. We will do that by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. It also provides real opportunity to benefit because the new economy and a better way of delivering things will come in a low-carbon way, in particular in transport. The current system, for five decades, has been orientated towards car ownership and use and we did not invest enough in public transport and active travel. The climate action plan addresses and recognises that, and shows that we need to change. It is not against motorists and does not say that we will not have additional roads, as we do need them, but that must be part of an overall plan that sees us meeting our emissions reduction targets. An Bord Pleanála recognised that in its letter. As I understand, the decision must go to a court hearing. The Department will continue to work with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, TII, and the local authorities to make sure we do get Galway travelling and working well. I believe a low-carbon future for Galway is also going to be the best transport system for it. I look forward to engaging with TII and the local authorities when those hearings have taken place.

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