Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will certainly raise climate-proofing with the Minister. The Senator will be aware that the Department recognises that increased participation by people in offshore renewable energy projects will bring about significant supports for climate action as people in turn become personally invested in their delivery. The Department continues to engage in the overall package of community participation and benefits in line with Ireland’s climate ambitions to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and to deliver on the European Green Deal.

The Senator is absolutely right that this is a huge opportunity for people and communities to be involved in major decision-making. Two lines of thought exist in this regard, namely, that decision-making will occur nationally or it will take place locally. Working together, however, we can get the best of both worlds. I take on board the views of the Senator, and also her request for more information about climate-proofing. I agree as well that the development of many skills and abilities can be explored in these communities.