Green Party accuses Roche of Hot Air on Climate Change

Press Release: Environment 29 October 2006

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29 October 2006

Green Party accuses Roche of Hot Air on Climate Change

Calls on Government to take lead in limiting Ireland's contribution to climate change

The Green Party has called on the Irish Government to take the lead in promoting policies to limit Ireland's contribution to climate change. The call comes in the light of the European Commission's criticism of Ireland for falling behind in reaching the target to limit emissions to a 13% increase on 1990 figures in the period 2008-2012.

The Party has called on Government to implement the following measures:

-Fast-track public transport projects such as the Dublin Metro and Luas extensions. Increase funding for public transport by scaling back motorway projects.

-Provide clear leadership on planning issues. Scrap the decentralisation programme and prioritise a National Spatial Strategy that devolves powers and investment to the regions. Halt urban sprawl and limit long-distance car commuting by investing in our railways, and in well-planned new settlements.

-Support renewable energy. Implement more measures to promote wind turbines, bio-mass and other energy projects that limit carbon emissions.

-Review the Building Regulations and increase standards to produce new buildings that are better insulated and less expensive to heat.

Green Party Environment Spokesperson Ciarán Cuffe TD stated:

"The Government should be taking the lead in promoting policies to limit Ireland's emissions. Our emissions are running close to twice the increase allowed for under the Kyoto Agreement, yet the Minister for the Environment is failing to provide leadership and vision on the issue. We need more than hot air and platitudes from the minister for the Environment, we need action. Our Building Regulation standards simply don't measure up to our neighbours in the UK, and the energy output from renewable sources is almost insignificant.

"The Irish Government cannot stand idly by and allow the market to provide green energy solutions. They must lead by example and provide innovation and legislation to promote our economic future and protect the environment."