Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Government, countries and scientists around the world have had massive studies carried out of climate change and its impact on flooding. An Environmental Protection Agency report from 2009 co-authored by Professor John Sweeney from the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, contains incredible detail about the impact of climate change on flooding. Whether the OPW is going to start denying this or this is evidence of Fine Gael's right-wing approach, it is a fact that even in the US, climate change deniers accept that climate change is taking place. They just deny that humans have anything to do with it. There seems to be no recognition of that and if this is at the heart of Government policy, it is extremely worrisome and dangerous.

One can argue about what is causing it but the science is there and the Government must accept that temperatures are rising and a result of this is flooding will continue to occur. This is a very important point to make on what was an otherwise reasonable speech by the Minister of State. I acknowledge work is taking place throughout the country. Many of these projects were initiated by the previous Government and I am glad they are being continued. I do not have too many complaints in my area with regard to schemes, and councillors throughout the country do not bring forward too many complaints because many of the schemes promised are moving forward. I know of a number of minor works taking place in County Meath, including in Drumconrath, and I pay tribute to the Minister of State with regard to this because quick action was taken by the OPW. Other work is taking place in Dunboyne and Navan with regard to various emergencies under various schemes. However, I would like clarity on climate change because it must be at the heart of the debate. I am disappointed that none of the reports from the EPA was included by the Minister of State in his speech.

Ironically, when we were in government the ¤10 million fund was derided by the then Opposition as not being enough. We then found enough people were not coming to claim the entire amount. It was restrictive enough in certain cases but helpful in others. I am glad it is there for when problems arise.

Will the Minister of State clarify the point on climate change? It is a crucial absence from his speech and there is evidence which he or his officials do not accept. It is partially the cause of many flood events which occur.