Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

Last year, there was only a 1% reduction in carbon emissions, nowhere near the targets previously set by the Government. Why is it taking us so long to catch up with the rest of Europe? The reduction was accounted for by the decreases in the energy and agricultural sectors, the latter of which was referred to by Senator O'Malley. We must give credit where it is due, as the Government is complying and doing its best. The level of afforestation must be also commended, another factor in our emission decreases.

Emissions from transport increased from 13.7 million tonnes to 14.4 million tonnes, while waste emissions increased from 1.83 million tonnes to 1.93 million tonnes. There is an opportunity to open the Mullingar-Athlone link to provide transport for people from Sligo through to Mullingar and Dublin. This is just one instance which could assist to reduce emissions.

This budget aims to reduce carbon emissions by 400,000 tonnes throughout 2009. Vehicle registration tax and changes to motor tax will account for the majority of this reduction. Encouragement of more organic farming methods and longer grazing seasons will also contribute. What about all the other areas where we continue to emit high levels of carbon and greenhouse gases? We must consider seriously all the ways we could reduce our dependency on certain forms of high cost energy.

The failure to meet the target set out has forced the Government into a position where it must purchase carbon credits which will amount to €50 billion in 2009. How far €50 billion could go to improving public transport. We must change the patterns of our behaviour and must be able to honour our obligations. I am aware a number of cases are currently before the European courts where Ireland is in breach of EU environmental law. There is no alternative to the simple and plain fact that we must change our policies.

Newspapers have noted the frustration of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Gormley, on the slow progress that has been made. The Green Party has achieved no more than if it were not in Government. The Minister has also stated he wants a more radical approach. To this end he announced €200,000 for a bicycle scheme. This is not a radical move.

Driving habits will not change following the €200 levy for car parking spaces for all workers in urban areas. Due to the lack of alternative transport, this will just be another burden for commuters. These people are victims of the failed policies of the Government. Commuters have no choice but to drive to work because they had to buy houses in rural parts of Ireland.

We have made commitments to the Kyoto Agreement. We must honour them and unless we take radical decisions, we will never reach these targets. My party colleague, Deputy Seán Barrett, said we must drive home the message that climate change is everyone's business.