Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

175. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the new citizens’ engagement model mentioned in chapter 15 of the Climate Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20974/20]

Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

180. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will provide an update on the new citizens’ engagement model as mentioned in chapter 15 of the Climate Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20979/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 175 and 180 together.

Action 159 of the Climate Action Plan 2019 required the building of a new localised citizen engagement model through the National Dialogue on Climate Action (NDCA). The new Citizen engagement model consists of a number of strands addressing various segments in Irish Society with a focus on youth. Young people are being approached through the "National Climate Change Action & Awareness Programme (NCCAAP), supported by my Department and being delivered virtually due to Covid-19 restrictions. In addition, the NDCA supported the Graduate.ie 2nd level schools competition. From October, young people will also be in a position to choose a new Junior Certificate short course which is being developed collaboratively by the SEAI, the NCCA and my Department.

Homeowners and property managers are already addressed through existing SEAI Climate Change resources and a new video resource has recently been published to provide a clear link between carbon and BER ratings. My Department is collaborating with Creative Ireland to involve the Arts and creative community in the messaging and with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs on the development of a Climate Action Youth Council (currently delayed due to Covid-19 restrictions).

A policy paper which draws together these various initiatives, as well as work by the EPA and engagement activities undertaken by Local Authorities and the Climate Action Regional Offices, is in preparation in my Department.