Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the opportunity to contribute to this important debate. Our planet is facing unprecedented challenge with the loss of biodiversity threatening the very foundation of our ecosystems and the wellbeing of all living things.

Biodiversity is the complex and interconnected ecosystem that is the beating heart of our society and economy. Large swathes of it face destruction and extinction. We must all act to protect nature. Our future and that of future generations depends on it. On that, there must be no question. This cannot be a question of "if"; it must be a question of "how" we do it.

The nature restoration regulation has the potential to be an important part of that "how". It must be fit for purpose, inclusive, provide for a just transition and pathways instead of cliff edges and effectively communicated and resourced. The regulation is a work in progress. There are significant concerns regarding its provisions. Some concerns are misplaced or misrepresented by powerful vested interests that want to maintain the status quo. They cannot be entertained. They must be challenged and faced down. Other concerns are earnestly held. Farmers and rural communities are concerned about the implications for their land and livelihoods. To dismiss these, in some cases, with contempt, is not acceptable. We need a process that will engage, explain, listen, amend, improve and move forward. We need a Government that will lead.

The nature restoration regulation must be salvaged. It will need to be amended to make it fit for purpose. The Minister has confirmed that there are proposed amendments at European level before the environment committee and the Council of Ministers that may help to move things forward, and I hope they do. We need a regulation that not only addresses the crisis in biodiversity but also ensures fair outcomes for those who will be most affected. The value we place on our ecosystem must be reflected in how we value those who are charged with protecting it. We need pathways, not cliff edges. We need real consultative and engaging processes that include those who are the custodians of our land - our farmers and rural communities. It is essential that any strategy to address biodiversity loss recognises the crucial role that farmers play and includes their perspectives, knowledge and needs.

We also need an approach that does not kow-tow to wealthy vested interests with powerful influence. We must be sure to have informed discussions that are grounded in facts and science and, importantly, benefit from the experience and knowledge of stakeholders. We must not be led by misinformation or the pursuit of profit. Only then can we achieve a nature restoration regulation that effectively addresses the crisis that confronts us. Standing still or the status quois an option. We need a pathway forward and must forge it as a matter of urgency.

Separate from the nature restoration regulation but related to its intent are climate obligations here. The Government has a climate action plan to which it must give life. It must provide certainty and the tools, knowledge and support to people. Speculation or policymaking on the hoof or in the pages of the Sunday papers will not do. It only serves to add to confusion. The Minister pointed to the issue of funding. The Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications speculated at the weekend about a nature restoration fund.

Will there be such a fund? If so, how much will be allocated to it? What will it be used for? What is expected of landowners? Important questions need to be asked and answered. A collaborative approach and urgent decisive action are needed now. We can, and must, find a way forward.

See this speech in context