Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

If we get to 51%, we will still be on a path towards net zero, although we will still have a long way to go. Therefore, it will be up to whoever is in government in ten years' time. The way it will evolve is that five-year budgets will continue to be developed one after the other. As one expires, another one will be put in place. We will have a better idea of where we are in the process. I do not see any Government looking to hold back, as that would not make any sense because we will only be halfway there at the 51% reduction. I do not believe it needs the words "at least". The commitment is hugely ambitious because we are starting from almost zero in effect. Halving emissions in a decade is ambitious beyond compare but we can deliver it. We will do so because it is better for the country and better for the economic development opportunities it will bring, as well as a fairer economy as we deliver it with a just transition.

I believe the wording is appropriate in terms of reflecting the programme for Government commitment. While we are working on the legislation here, behind the scenes we are working flat out on the climate action plan. In the work that is being done, nothing less than a 50% or 51% emissions reduction requirement is being expected by the advisory council. Every Department is now being asked to play its part in meeting this target. This is something we will be able to demonstrate in the autumn when we enact the Bill and start proceeding. I do not believe the Bill needs to be amended in that regard. The Government's commitment internally is as strong as the wording in the provision and I do not believe it needs to be amended.