David Norris (Independent)

I could not cycle. I flew, thus adding to my carbon footprint. However, the Norwegian ambassador was extremely helpful in making the arrangements and I saw the impact of climate change on the glaciers. All Members are aware that lumps have been falling off the Matterhorn and villages are threatened by the collapse, not simply of the ice formations, but also of the rock formations behind them. Significant rises in temperature have been recorded and have become so noticeable that even ordinary citizens, let alone scientists, across the planet are aware of this fact.

Animal, bird and insect species are disappearing at an ever-increasing rate and there have been changes in fruit and flower growing patterns. Last week, I heard people from County Wexford discuss the matter. It has affected the industry there and people in County Wexford have been obliged to change their economic patterns. At least one Pacific island has already disappeared under the ocean. Perhaps the doubting Thomas's will be convinced only when the planet explodes. By that time it will be too late and self-indulgence and stupidity will have triumphed. Members should remember the words of Chief Seattle, who said that if one spits upon the earth one is spitting on oneself. One cannot damage the environment without damaging oneself.

At the root of this problem lies the untrammelled capitalism of the world in which we live. This is predicated upon the unsustainable principle of an infinitely expanding market. However, this is an impossible and self-defeating idea because we live in a world of finite resources, as has been seen clearly in respect of fossil fuels. Nevertheless, in the past 40 years business has implemented the notion of planned obsolescence. In other words, decay is built into merchandise.

I recently came across a good example of this phenomenon. My washing machine flooded the kitchen and I summoned a plumber. When he asked me how long I had it, I replied that I had it for only 20 years. He nearly fainted and had to be given active resuscitation.