Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Norris should do the honourable thing and acknowledge that at the very least.

I acknowledge the role of the various bodies such as Friends of the Earth and so many other NGOs that have made a valuable contribution in terms of contributing to this legislation. I want to make it clear to the House that the Government is the sponsor of the Bill.

The proposed amendment seeks to place as one of its functions an explicit onus on the Climate Change Advisory Council to consult with various prescribed learned bodies and environmental organisations. It is important to note that the advisory council is independent and will consult with all stakeholders. I want to make it clear that it is not a question of ignoring or excluding any person or body. I would hate the impression to be given that any body would be excluded. It is factually not correct. In any event, under section 11 (2) there is already provision for the council to engage with all interested bodies, including the organisations and the categories listed and referred to help them in their work. Of course, there will also be opportunities for these stakeholders and others to engage in the development of the mitigation and adaptation policy measures during the statutory public consultation processes already envisaged in the Bill. I acknowledge their contribution to the climate change debate and the valuable work they have done but I am sure they will ensure that their voices are heard - and will be heard loudly - in terms of the development of these plans. The amendment is unnecessary and for those reasons I cannot accept it.