Green Party TD for Dún Laoghaire, Ciarán Cuffe has been appointed Minister of State with special responsibility for Sustainable Transport, Horticulture, Planning and Heritage.

Green Party TD for Dún Laoghaire Ciarán Cuffe:

 “I’m honoured and delighted to be appointed as Minister of State. My responsibilities span the Departments of Transport, Agriculture and Environment.

“In Transport I’ll be implementing the Smarter Travel policy which is a blueprint for a more sustainable transport future. This will include progressing initiatives such integrated ticketing and the Sutton to Sandycove cycle route.

“In Agriculture, Fisheries and Food I’ll be continuing the good work of my predecessor Trevor Sargent in food and horticulture. This covers organic farming, GM free production and farmers’ markets. I’ll also be supporting Irish farmers in getting a fair deal for farm produce.

“In Environment, Heritage and Local Government I’ll be progressing the Planning Bill, protecting heritage and tackling climate change.

“I see this new role as joining the dots on sustainability in the way we plan, the way we travel and the way we farm. I’m looking forward to the challenge of my new responsibilities.”