John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 451: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the way Irish aid policy takes into account issues surrounding climate change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34530/06]

Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As I have previously stated, I believe that climate change is probably the biggest environmental challenge facing humanity in the coming years. The evidence we see coming out, practically on a daily basis, based on global scientific observations, suggests that climate change is an immediate reality.

The White Paper on Irish Aid, which was launched on 18 September, and which Deputies will have the opportunity to discuss in the Dáil shortly, addresses the issue of climate change in the context of the links between the environment and development.

The White Paper on Irish Aid refers specifically to the serious threats to development posed by climate change. The increased severity and frequency of droughts, floods and cyclones threatens to undermine our efforts to improve food security, reduce disease and safeguard livelihoods. Our strategy will be to assist developing countries to prepare for and adapt to changes in climate, and to promote knowledge about the impact of climate change and its integration into all development planning.

This approach fits in with our commitment to the EU Action Plan on 'Climate Change in the Context of Development Cooperation'. The Plan sets out activities to raise the policy profile of climate change, adapt to climate change, promote low carbon development and build capacity to plan for climate change in developing countries.

Ireland, as a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), has obligations to help developing countries adapt to the inevitable changes in environmental conditions brought about by climate change. Specific examples of support approved this year include:

€450,000 for the United Nations Climate Change Capacity Development Project. The training includes:

Negotiations training for African delegates attending the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

Delivery of Africa specific training modules ranging from vulnerability assessment to the Clean Development Mechanism

Training for the Southern Africa Development Community policy makers to provide information and tools to plan for climate change and greenhouse gas emissions

€225,000 for a consortium of international partners supporting the Climate and Development in Africa programme to conduct research which will inform improved decision making around climate change

€90,000 for the Least Developed Countries Expert Group to provide technical guidance and advice to Least Developed Countries on adaptation strategies and plans to address climate change.