Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I hope that these matters will be reflected in the fund when it is opened and that they are mirrored. The question of international matters is important. The discussion of the circular economy is being had in the context of EU legislation and directives.This is an area we need to be progressing collectively. We have a particular responsibility as a wealthier country to give leadership in that regard and to recognise that we are an end point in many supply chains in relation to these issues.

If the Minister of State is not accepting these amendments, I would hope that when my colleague, Senator Ruane's legislation on corporate transparency in emissions, including scope 3 emissions in terms of supply chain, continues to progress that the Government will continue to support it because it is key that we move forward in ensuring that all emissions are properly being marked and measured as scope 1, scope 2 and scope 3 and that we do not end up with gaps in the supply chain. We know how much financial accountability in terms of the supply chain often disappears but in terms of emissions, the margin for error is even less and the margin for reclaiming ground, such as the accountancy tricks in terms of emissions, is far more serious in that there is no coming back from runaway climate change. In that regard, stringency in that area, and clarity and transparency, is important.

I will press some of the amendments in areas that, I believe, are important because I would like to see them in the Bill. I would like to be guaranteed that they would be part of the work of the circular economy fund rather than merely hoping that they might become such.

In terms of amendment No. 27, I accept, as it is not Committee Stage, we cannot debate back and forth but I would like to clarify that only public servants who are bound by that public service code will be in those sub-committees because I suppose that provides the guarantee. If that is covered but there is a risk of there being any other persons who may be part of those committees, this measure becomes crucial. It is not clear. Is it the case that it will only be public services or members of Departments?