Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 453: To ask the Minister for Education and Science his carbon footprint and that of each Minister of State in his Department; the change in this footprint after one year in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33334/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The website of the Government's climate change awareness campaign, www.change.ie, provides a carbon calculator which enables everyone to work out their own carbon footprint. Using this tool, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions arising in the course of my ministerial functions amounted to 9.98 tonnes from my appointment as Minister to 30 September 2008. Of this .78 of a tonne related to air travel, which will be fully offset under the Government's offsetting scheme for official travel.

On the same basis, my Department has estimated that the carbon emissions of Minister of State, Sean Haughey, arising in the course of his ministerial functions amounted to 8.85 tonnes in the year to 30 September 2008. Of this 1.94 tonnes related to air travel, which will be fully offset under the Government's offsetting scheme for official travel.