Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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151. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which he expects to meet international requirements in respect of protection of the environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32290/16]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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I attach a high level of importance to supporting the international agenda on protection of the environment, and to fulfilling our obligations under relevant international agreements.  This is consistent with the overall Government position, as reflected in the commitments set out in the Programme for a Partnership Government, particularly the commitment to work towards implementing the new Sustainable Development Goals and to promote their implementation around the world.  In the case of my own Department, the range of climate policy commitments reflect the Government's support for, and response to, the international effort under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).  An immediate example of that support and response is the fact that my Department is currently engaged with the other relevant Departments in finalising arrangements for Ireland to ratify the Paris Agreement in advance of the upcoming 22^ndConference of the Parties to the UNFCCC. Also, a range of measures were announced in Budget 2017 which will contribute to Ireland meeting its international obligations in relation to climate change.