Michelle Mulherin (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There are two points I wish to make. The challenge, given that renewable technologies are more expensive and also the infrastructure required, whether it is turbines where there is biomass, is to ensure that whatever initial expense is involved, we are moving towards cheaper energy for people. We do not want people in energy poverty. The carbon tax levied on coal affects the poorest households who may have no choice but to buy coal.

The other issue is community engagement. There are too many contradictions. At times Government targets are criticised. People ask why they are not being achieved and why the Government is not implementing them at a time when there is resistance on the ground. There has to be proper engagement on the issue and a dialogue on how we go forward together, a dialogue about the common good. In that respect I welcome the appointment of former President, Mary Robinson, as climate justice ambassador. In my own town of Ballina last weekend, a symposium discussed the issue and how it leads to poverty around the world.