Maire Devine (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I was alarmed by the report on climate action at the weekend and also by today's report from the EPA on premature death due to pollution, which is said to be at 1,100 and climbing, according to the latest statistics from 2016. Across the EU alone, the figure is up to 700,000 deaths per year, which is a significant amount. The problem is that we have lower levels than those specified in EU regulations, so our air quality passes the test. However, it does not pass the more strict World Health Organization test. Stations are recording mainly in rural areas but the deaths are caused by airborne pollutant particles in urban areas from diesel, coal and fossil fuels. As a result, many people are dying prematurely and there is also an impact on the health service. Going forward, we know that climate action will impact much more on public health. I would like the Leader to invite the Minister to address climate change. I am a member of the Joint Committee on Climate Action and we are addressing transport, but we are still buying diesel buses and allowing oil to be drilled offshore. I accept there is a commitment to stop that, but we must act a lot more quickly. Yesterday, I asked the Seanad Committee on Procedure and Privileges, CPP, to consider inviting Greta Thunberg to address this House. Today, she became a recipient of the alternative Nobel prize. She is leading the climate action awareness strike and is embarrassing us into doing something for her generation. We cannot leave them behind. I urge the Leader to consider putting the matter on the agenda. Yesterday, I asked the Leader to ask Greta to address these Houses.