Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have two questions about the climate action plan launched earlier in the week. Senator Mulherin referred to the additional work permits we were awaiting in the horticulture and forestry sector, for which applications had been submitted. The action plan includes an ambitious target of putting an additional 8,000 ha of land under forestry per year. That is good news, but it brings with it issues related to employment, training and skills. Horticulture and forestry are two areas in which we can excel, particularly in expanding output of commercial timbers. We need to look at internal markets and internal consumption, of soft woods, in particular, and the potential to develop these areas. In the past ten years there has been massive growth in the apples and orchard sector related to cider production, particularly in Clonmel and the midlands. The experts at Teagasc tell us that they would like to see this area expand further to provide employment opportunities. However, that will require training resources and additional permits.

The action plan includes a proposal for the establishment of a just transition review group. A just transition is critical if we are to bring people along with us in seeking to achieve our climate goals. Otherwise, not everybody will be able to absorb all of the objectives and some will be left behind. In the case of persons on the edges of society, particularly those with income disadvantages, who will pay, for instance, to retrofit their homes? We can find ways to ensure nobody will be left behind, but we need to hear how it will be done. Any debate in the House on the action plan should zone in specifically on the issue of a just transition.