Christopher O'Sullivan
Cork South-West · Fianna Fáil · Ireland
“The aim of the hierarchy of the plan-making, as set out in the Act of 2024, is to improve scope for the various tiers of the planning system to more closely relate to one another, therefore providing greater clarity and consistency for all involved, from individual citizens and residents' groups to landowners and developers and ultimately…”
“My understanding is that a ten-year modernisation programme has already been undertaken by the Courts Service and significant progress has been made in improving the availability and use of court data.”
“Under the Act of 2024, the national planning framework continues to spearhead and explicate the planning agenda and sits at the pinnacle of the plan-led system and structure, whereby all tiers of planning from regional to local align with strategic objectives set out in the national planning framework.”
“The Senator has suggested that such plans would identify strategic development priorities, including settlement hierarchy, infrastructure corridors, climate adaptation measures and areas for regeneration; set out indicative phasing for major infrastructure and public investment; include spatial mapping of long-term development objectives;…”
“The Bill also facilitates the completion of the work of the Valuation Tribunal and the facility for the local authority to issue the levy demand and, where necessary, for An Coimisiún Pleanála to deal with any appeals to the demand that may arise in those existing cases currently with the tribunal.”
“As the system of plan-making in the State has just been revised and is being implemented for the first time, the introduction of another layer of plan-making could undermine the new hierarchy that was carefully arranged and agreed following extensive engagement with a range of stakeholders, including the Office of the Attorney General, an…”
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“That is a small sample of what National Parks and Wildlife Service does. The NPWS engages in strategic land acquisition both to support the continued growth and expansion of the network of national parks and nature reserves, as well as for conservation purposes. In 2025, the NPWS acquired more than 800 ha of land, including the acquisition I mentioned earlier of land in Wicklow, which will support the expansion of the Glen of the Downs nature reserve and the purchase of an additional 249 ha at Tievebaun, adjacent to Connemara National Park. I have spoken before about the publication in January 2024 of Ireland’s fourth national biodiversity action plan, NBAP. This plan represents a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach to the governance and conservation of biodiversity.”
“These included the completion of a sensory trail in Connemara National Park; trail upgrades in Wicklow Mountains National Park, including at the hugely popular Spinc trail; footbridge upgrade works at Knocksink nature reserve; the redevelopment of the car park at Ballykeeffe nature reserve in Kilkenny; trail maintenance works at Diamond Hill and Ellis Wood nature trail; upgrade works at the education centre in Connemara National Park; funding towards the redevelopment of the car park and replacement of the roof at Coole park visitor centre; improvement works at Tóchar Daithí Bán trail in wild Nephin; reroofing of the visitor centre and a complete refit of the auditorium at Glenveagh National Park; and works at Dinis Cottage and Lord Brandon’s Cottage in Killarney, as well as fencing and trail maintenance works. The list goes on.”
“In Coole Park, the recent opening of a new bat roost on the grounds of the park, to protect the lesser horseshoe bat, involved the renovation of an old apple store on the grounds of the nature reserve. The renovation allowed for original features of the house to be retained, including its unique stonework and beautiful limestone slab floor. Alongside these conservation works, through funding approved by Government, my Department has also worked to maintain and upgrade a range of visitor services and trails across the national parks and reserves.”
“In Glengarriff nature reserve we are working on a 100-year strategy for the Glengarriff woodlands to ensure its protection into the future. In the Glen of the Downs nature reserve the recent strategic purchase of more than 100 acres will see the conversion of commercial timber forestry into native woodland over time, utilising local seed sources, invasive species controls and techniques such as continuous cover forestry to enable a sensitive transition that protects vulnerable soils. The project will serve as a valuable example of best practice to support the delivery of key objectives under the nature restoration law to expand rare old sessile oak woodland - a priority habitat under the EU Habitats Directive - on public land.”
“In Connemara National Park, the NPWS revealed a new and unique cultural and visitor experience - the Connemara Pony Heritage Centre. For generations, the much-loved Connemara pony has been recognised as Ireland’s native breed, and this exciting new experience will pay tribute to the Connemara pony’s valuable contribution to Ireland and Connemara’s heritage. In Brú na Bóinne National Park, work on the preparation of a masterplan for the new national park in Dowth is almost complete. The plan will enable strategic development of the park over the coming years and will adopt a holistic approach to developing a sustainable and innovative visitor experience and community resource while recognising the key remit of the NPWS to protect nature and promote and enhance biodiversity.”
“In the Burren National Park, we launched the NPWS discovery van, bringing nature, education and information directly to the heart of communities, schools and protected areas. It will be used as a year-round outreach tool, enabling NPWS guides to visit primary and secondary schools, offering environmental education linked to habitats, species and conservation. It will also attend festivals, community events and national fairs, raising awareness of NPWS's mission and supporting national campaigns and educational programmes around the country. In Wild Nephin National Park, we completed 220 ha of bog restoration at the Bangor Erris natural heritage area. This was completed in collaboration with an adjacent private bog restoration project, making it the largest blanket bog restoration project in Ireland to date.”
“In Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, lreland's newest national park and our first marine park, the NPWS has already undertaken a biodiversity review and various ecological studies, including a review of seal population dynamics within the park, as well as surveys of various taxa, including fungi, lichen and seabirds such as puffins. In Wicklow Mountains National Park, our long-term biodiversity project, focused on the Glenasmole Valley, is using a suite of land management techniques, including extensive native woodland planting in deep gullies, blanket bog rehabilitation to restore heather and vegetation management, to increase biodiversity while also providing measurable benefits such as increased carbon storage, reduction in soil erosion, improved water quality and reduced flooding risk along the River Dodder.”
“Work continues apace across all of our sites. In Glenveagh National Park, success in the delivery of the park woodland strategy is becoming evident as the natural regeneration of oak, birch and other woodland species gives life to woodland layers, which is a clear indication of habitat response to our efforts. Last year, I released a number of white-tailed eagle chicks back into the wild at Killarney National Park, marking the end of the current phase of the successful reintroduction project. These magnificent birds, once a striking element of Ireland's natural landscape, were driven to extinction on the island in the 19th century as a result of human persecution. Restoring this lost species to our skies is a significant step in restoring Ireland's natural heritage and will bring great benefit to Irish biodiversity.”
“The NPWS can achieve practical results through front-line engagement on restoring habitats, raising public awareness, tackling wildlife crime, improving the condition of protected sites, tackling invasive species - the NPWS tackles invasive species on approximately 750 ha in the national parks annually - and building the capacity we need to meet the EU nature restoration law. Government funding has allowed the continuation of work at a large and small scale. I will now offer a quick summary of just some of what has been delivered. Our national parks and nature reserves are perhaps what people think of most when considering nature. They are invaluable resources for biodiversity but also for a myriad of other reasons, including well-being, employment, health, community and tourism, as well as nature.”
“I have been humbled and inspired by what I have seen, heard and learned from them. That work can only be achieved with support and I am proud the Government has backed and continues to back environmental ambitions. The work delivered by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, NPWS, is key to supporting biodiversity in Ireland. Through successive budgets, Government investment in the NPWS has increased year on year, with the core budget allocation for 2026 rising, for the first time, to more than €100 million. That increased investment has enabled substantial recruitment across all levels of the NPWS. Its staff are part of the community across the country. They are a visible team working tirelessly to achieve the mandate of the NPWS, which is to protect nature. It is a simple statement but a complex ambition to achieve.”
“National Biodiversity Week is an opportunity to showcase actions being taken to engage with some of the brilliant projects that are being delivered by groups large and small to promote biodiversity. Each of them has a positive impact. The breadth and scope of the activities is always breathtaking and it is heartening to see the list of events grow year on year. While my role as Minister of State has given me an increased insight into, and appreciation of, the challenges that have yet to be overcome, I have also been honoured to see at first hand much of the fantastic work that is being done all across the country. I have great hope for what can be achieved. I have had the opportunity to visit towns, villages and groups and see the projects and programmes being undertaken.”
“I appreciate time being allocated to statements on National Biodiversity Week. I sincerely thank its organisers, the Irish Environmental Network, for putting on so many incredible events the length and breadth of the country. It really puts biodiversity at the forefront and gives it a platform, which is something we do not do often enough. Considering the crisis we are in, we need to do more of it. I commend the Irish Environmental Network on doing that, supported by my Department. I urge everybody, right across Ireland, to go to a national park or nature reserve or attend one of the fantastic events taking place to learn about and appreciate nature. I guarantee that nobody who does so will regret it.”
“I really feel that cross-party, cross-Government and cross-Opposition, we need a whole Oireachtas approach to support the upcoming nature restoration plan, to ensure it is funded and to ensure we use it as the best opportunity that we have ever had in the State to turn the tide on nature loss in Ireland.”
“On a lighting policy, I also imagine that wildlife rescue centres will get things like Manx shearwater, seabirds and gannets brought into their care, because there is a ridiculous lighting policy along our coast where these birds are attracted in and become injured and vulnerable. I commend the Senator on the motion. There is no doubt about that. I would love to see a lot more time in the Seanad dedicated to a Private Member's motion on habitat restoration and how we can protect the most vulnerable species, which are threatened with extinction and in decline. That is not to take away from the work that wildlife rescue centres do. They are extraordinary.”
“They could tell you the nerdiest facts on whales, dolphins, polar bears and exotic chameleons that live in Papua New Guinea, but do they know what a healthy ecosystem in Ireland looks like? That is where I would like to see the focus and funding going, instead of Sitka spruce going out to schools, as Senators will be well aware. It also helps the work of those wildlife rescue centres. We are in the middle of breeding season now. There are ground-nesting birds and an issue where people are letting their dogs off leashes. I guarantee that many of the referrals to wildlife rescue centres are because of damage that has been done by dogs in sensitive areas where they have been let off leashes.”
“I would love to see as much focus and funding as possible going to nature restoration, restoring those habitats, creating healthy ecosystems, and getting rid of the invasive species that are an absolute blight on our countryside and impacting our native species. That is where we need to put our focus and funding, because those measures, above all else, will see those beautiful species that we all hold so dear come back from the brink. I am glad to see education mentioned in this as well, because that is another area of focus that we have not spent enough effort, time or resources highlighting. We need people to become ecologically literate. Young kids in particular are obsessed with wildlife.”
“I welcome many of the comments around nature restoration, habitat protection and species in general, because even though we have to support our wildlife rescue centres, I really fundamentally believe, especially after today, when we launch the recommendations from the new independent advisory committee on nature restoration, that our focus has to be on bringing Ireland, the species within Ireland, and our habitats back from the brink. It is really bleak out there. The habitats are in a bad condition. Our species are declining at a rapid rate. We can do more and better. The nature restoration plan provides us with the opportunity to do that.”
“They protect wild species which, as we have already outlined, are under severe threat, so we want to support that. We need wildlife rescue centres in existence. We need the dedicated personnel who work and volunteer there. Without them, wildlife in Ireland would be in a much poorer place. I will and have given a commitment to visit Kildare Wildlife Rescue in the coming months to see first-hand the extraordinary work it is doing.”
“I reiterate that together with my colleagues across government, I am committed to ensuring that the committee's recommendations are delivered on through Ireland's national nature restoration plan and that the people of Ireland, no matter where they come from, can see and feel the benefits of restored and thriving nature for themselves. The NPWS provides the science, the regulation and the funding, but the success of the national restoration plan depends on the farmers, the wardens and the local communities who share our vision. We are no longer just documenting decline; we are leading the recovery. We are ensuring that Ireland's unique species remain a permanent, thriving part of our natural heritage. I welcome the motion. There is absolutely no dispute. The role that wildlife rescue centres play across Ireland is vital.”
“In addition, the report provides an analysis of Articles 4 to 13 of the EU nature restoration law, which sets out legally binding targets to restore a wide range of ecosystems and species in EU member states. Ireland is by far the most advanced EU nation in putting together our nature restoration plan, demonstrating the priority that we hold for nature restoration. The independent advisory committee's work was informed by parallel public and stakeholder engagement processes that heard from more than 1,000 people across the country through deliberative democracy-style leaders forums and local, participatory community conversations.”
“Earlier today, I launched the independent advisory committee report, Recommendations to inform the development and implementation of Ireland’s national Nature Restoration Plan. The report, which includes 46 policy recommendations and 48 article-specific recommendations, represents the culmination of 15 months of work by the committee, which was established in late 2024 to advise me on the preparation of Ireland's national nature restoration plan, a requirement under the EU nature restoration law. It comprises seven general recommendations aimed at ensuring a successful implementation of the forthcoming plan, including three priority recommendations, which are funding nature restoration, prioritising action on public lands, and supporting farmers, fishermen and foresters.”
“Through the local biodiversity action fund and in conjunction with Fingal County Council, the NPWS provides the vital funding for NGO-led wardening of Ireland’s Eye in Dublin. Protection also means rolling out conservation measures to improve the physical security of vulnerable populations, such as predator exclusion fencing, from the breeding wader sites of County Donegal to protect lapwing and curlew, to the little tern colonies in Portrane. These fences are often the thin line between a successful breeding season and total colony failure. Our Hen Harrier Threat Response Plan 2024-2028 co-ordinates 60-plus actions with the aim of supporting a population recovery of hen harriers in Ireland. We are tackling pressures across the forestry, agriculture and energy sectors to help to move the species toward favourable status.”
“Similarly, LIFE on Machair is protecting the globally rare coastal habitats systems of the west of Ireland, supporting 259 pairs of breeding waders and rare pollinators like the great yellow bumblebee. We are proving that traditional agriculture and high-level conservation are not just compatible - they are co-dependent. In Wexford, to ensure the protection of breeding seabirds on the Great Saltee Island, part of the Saltee Islands special protection area and a world-class seabird colony holding an impressive ten seabird species of conservation interest, the NPWS has appointed wardens to engage with and educate visitors on the importance of the island and help reduce disturbance from visitor numbers.”
“Looking to securing the future of the corncrake in the west and north west, the NPWS is now contracting support under the Natura communities for birds initiative to ensure continuity after Corncrake LIFE, using existing frameworks of support and community-led programmes of delivery for corncrakes and other farmland birds, with an annual budget of €1.45 million per year. The NPWS has played an important role, along with the Irish Grey Partridge Conservation Trust, in the conservation of the grey partridge in Ireland. Our work at Lough Boora involves restoring habitats for grey partridge by providing suitable habitats like beetle banks and nesting strips, not just saving a game bird, but using it as an umbrella species to lift the biodiversity of the entire landscape.”
“This is reinforced by the EU nature restoration regulation, which challenges us to restore 20% of our land and sea by 2030. Today, I will demonstrate how the NPWS is meeting this ambition through a combination of rigorous regulation, innovative species projects and strategic community partnerships. In our coastal strongholds for corncrake, the NPWS has spearheaded a recovery of corncrake populations through the corncrake or traonach conservation programme, a continuation of the corncrake grant scheme, and this is led by the Corncrake LIFE project. Population targets set by the Corncrake LIFE project back in 2021 have been surpassed, with a population increase of 50% by 2025, far exceeding the original project ambitions of a 20% increase for that period.”
“Under its remit, the NPWS has a regulatory role in relation to wildlife rescue centres as it oversees mandatory licensing requirements for individuals seeking to possess protected wild birds and animals for the purposes of rehabilitation and release under the Wildlife Act 1976. Conditions are attached to such licences to ensure the protection of wildlife and inspections of facilities occur on an annual basis, where resources allow. It also supports wildlife rehabilitation through a structured framework of specialised species projects. By ensuring these standards are met, the biological integrity of our wild populations is protected. With Ireland's 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan 2023-2030, NBAP, and the Wildlife (Amendment) Act, the work of NPWS now has a statutory backbone.”
“As a conservation body, the regulatory focus is primarily on the survival of species in the wild rather than individual animal welfare cases unless a crime has been committed. While wildlife rehabilitation centres focus on the recovery of individual animals, their work fits into the larger picture managed by the NPWS, which oversees the protection of our entire natural heritage. I note the motion recognises the need for those involved in wildlife rehabilitation to be licensed, experienced and accountable. Any increased professionalism in the wildlife sector is to be commended due to the importance of acting in the best interests of our wildlife population.”
“The approved work plan will strengthen organisational capacity, support the rescue and rehabilitation of an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 animals nationwide, expand professional training programmes and further develop public engagement through seminars, workshops and a national biodiversity conference, thereby contributing to biodiversity protection and community stewardship of natural heritage. At its core, the National Parks and Wildlife Service safeguards nature through a robust combination of regulatory oversight, compliance monitoring and enforcement activity. It is the primary body ensuring that all interventions in our natural world, including independent wildlife rehabilitation, are conducted legally and safely. It is important to clarify the remit of the NPWS.”
“Separately, the work of rehabilitation centres can be supported through other grant means too. For example, the heritage organisation support fund is a grant scheme administered by the Heritage Council, which aims to build the capacity of non-governmental organisations working in the heritage sector by providing grants of up to €50,000 towards their core costs. Interest in the scheme continues to grow year on year and funding for the scheme has also continued to increase. In 2026, the Heritage Council has allocated €1.8 million to the programme and this has included organisations like Kildare Wildlife Rescue, which received €50,000 this year and the same amount last year. The funding will support core staffing across wildlife care, volunteer co-ordination and training and engagement.”
“The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has lead policy responsibility within government for animal welfare and that Department already provides support to eligible animal welfare charities to assist them in their vital work in rescuing and rehoming domestic and farm animals through its animal welfare grants programme. Through this programme, funding of almost €6 million was awarded in 2023 and 2024 to over 100 animal welfare charities throughout the country. In 2025, this was increased to almost €6.5 million awarded to such charities, which includes those specifically involved in the care of wildlife. Last year, for example, Galway and Claddagh Swan Rescue received grant funding of €14,800; Wildlife Rescue Cork received €12,000; the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group received €10,000; and Seal Rescue Ireland received €36,000.”
“To this end, the programme for Government provides a commitment to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, which provides a modern framework for regulating and applying standards in the area of animal health and welfare. This Act applies to domesticated animals and livestock as well as wildlife in specific scenarios, such as preventing unnecessary suffering or controlling diseases. It obliges anyone who has an animal in their possession or control to safeguard the animal’s health and welfare.”
“The proposal that a wildlife rescue support scheme would be established partly from fines imposed for wildlife crime in the courts would need further consideration as currently, fines on convictions are paid directly to the Courts Service of Ireland which, ultimately, go to the State. Furthermore, in such wildlife crime cases, moneys in the form of donations are also, on occasion, made to wildlife charities but this appears to be at the discretion of the particular judge at that particular time. There would also be ramifications from a budget perspective, which would have to be examined by the Government with regard to approval and allocation of Exchequer moneys. Animal welfare is a key priority for the Government. Neglect of or causing unnecessary suffering to animals is not acceptable in our society.”
“As I understand it, the principle underpinning the motion is to provide sustainable, long-term support for the work of wildlife rehabilitation centres, using both revenue derived from fines imposed for wildlife crime and additional Exchequer funding. I and my colleagues in government are keenly aware that Ireland is home to incredibly dedicated individuals whose tireless care for injured animals is commendable. I thank them for that. These wildlife rehabilitation centres complement our conservation efforts, providing meaningful support to the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department in protecting our native species. I am grateful for the work they do to heal injured wildlife. In that spirit, the Government will not be opposing the motion. It should be noted, however, that there are some practical difficulties with it.”
“I welcome the crew from Waterford who are guests of Senator Clifford-Lee. It is not every day we talk about biodiversity and animals, so they have picked a good day to come in. I welcome Ted and Mary, all the way from Cork. Every time I am in this Chamber, their daughter is in here so either she loves giving me a hard time or she is one of the hardest-working Senators in the Seanad. The second one is probably true - maybe both. Senator Joe Conway gave a fantastic impression of a collared dove. It is not every day I see someone try to mimic a collared dove in Seanad Éireann, so we are making progress. Let me begin by thanking Senators Noonan, Stephenson, Harmon and Cosgrove for tabling this Private Members’ motion in the Seanad for debate today, which will not be opposed by the Government.”
“I reiterate that the Government rejects the Independent and Parties Technical Group motion and proposes a Government counter-motion that more accurately reflects the reality of the situation.”
“It is through these established democratic procedures that legislative proposals are examined, refined and determined, rather than through sweeping motions that overlook existing statutory frameworks. The Government's counter-motion reflects the reality of the decisive actions already being taken and the commitments already in place. It offers a balanced, practical and deliverable path forward. We are making tangible, measurable progress in reducing emissions, expanding renewable energy, improving affordability and advancing the conservation of our biodiversity. We have the plans, the legislative framework and the unprecedented investment in place to deliver on our climate ambitions.”
“It is a State-led, transitional reserve intended strictly for emergency use and it will be divested when it is no longer required to secure our energy systems. Fourth, the motion demands the immediate implementation of the recommendations of the independent advisory committee on nature restoration. We have not published the recommendations yet. This will be launched on 29 April and anyone who wishes to attend is more than welcome. Fifth, the motion calls for the removal of provisions from the draft legislation that limit the effectiveness of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act. It is a matter for the Oireachtas through the established legislative processes to scrutinise proposed legislation as it is progressed through the various stages.”
“Many of the projects that will be supported by this Bill are of strategic importance to the State’s climate action ambition, including critical electricity infrastructure and public transport projects. Without these projects, we will not be able to meet our overall climate targets and delays in their delivery will have significant negative consequences in this regard. Third, the motion mischaracterises the proposed strategic gas emergency reserve. The Government’s position on this has been clear. This is a priority project of a strategic nature required to mitigate the major consequences for our society and our economy that would arise if Ireland were to experience an interruption to our gas supplies via subsea interconnection.”
“First, it calls on the Government to recommit to the legally binding target of a 51% emissions reduction by 2030. As that target already is provided for in law under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015, no further recommitment is required. Second, the motion expresses concern that the Critical Infrastructure Bill 2026 limits the effectiveness of the climate Act. This is incorrect. The Bill is a targeted measure to accelerate delivery of certain critical projects including vital grid infrastructure. It does not seek to undermine the functioning of the climate Act nor does it disapply climate obligations. Climate considerations will continue to apply through planning and wider statutory processes.”
“One of the big benefits is that the same farmers and fishermen, who are in the west where it can be more difficult to earn a decent income, are the ones being employed directly by the local development partnership to actually carry out this work, including to remove invasive species and restore peatland habitats, for example. We will increase the scale of this; we will scale it up. There are even more benefits because the rhododendrons they are removing is being processed and turned into a biochar, which has so many benefits for farming and renewable energy. To say there is nothing happening in that area would be completely unfair and the advisory committee's recommendations will be published shortly. Despite this substantial body of work, the motion presents several demands that are either unnecessary, inaccurate or premature.”
“For the first time ever, in budget 2026 there was an allocation of €100 million for the National Parks and Wildlife Service, which allows us to put in place a structure where we can restore nature across the board. I will give a brief example of what this looks like. I recently visited counties Galway and Mayo where I saw the extraordinary work being done by the Wild Atlantic Nature LIFE project there. They are investing in the restoration of habitats and the removal of invasive species. There are so many wins in this approach. First, the farmer or landowner is getting paid to participate in this scheme, so they win. Second, the local development companies are leading out on this. The local development companies who employ so many people locally are administering and putting in place the measures to ensure this can be done at scale.”
“Since 2019, more than 257,500 home energy upgrades have been delivered. In budget 2026, the Government provided a record allocation of €640 million, targeting 73,000 home energy upgrades this year. This funding includes a record €340 million for the warmer homes scheme, supporting those experiencing energy poverty. I want to speak to what we are doing on biodiversity and nature. I fully accept and appreciate, as the Minister of State with responsibility for this area, that we have a massive tide to turn in terms of the loss of species and of habitats. We are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to restoring nature. We will soon have an amendment to the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 where we will see MPA legislation included. This will set the way very shortly after for MPAs to be designated.”
“To attract the next generation of investment in strategic energy-intensive sectors, our large energy user action plan is deploying a plan-led approach to co-ordinate the delivery of key enabling infrastructure, ensuring that long-term industrial growth is fully aligned with Ireland’s green transition. To support this rapid transition, we are backing our ambitions with unprecedented investment. The Government has approved an unprecedented €18.9 billion investment in the electricity grid. In the transport sector, the national development plan sectoral investment plan provided €10.1 billion for public transport, alongside major projects such as MetroLink and the DART+ programme. Electric vehicle uptake also continues to grow. We are delivering warmer, more comfortable homes through the national residential retrofit plan.”
“Ireland is a world leader in renewable electricity generation, which has increased fivefold since 2005. We have now reached approximately 8 GW of renewable generation capacity, up significantly from 2020 levels. In February this year, wind energy provided a record 50% of the State’s electricity. The Government is prioritising offshore wind, with five phase one projects currently progressing through the planning system. The offshore renewable electricity support scheme, ORESS, Tonn Nua offshore wind auction concluded successfully last year and will make a major contribution to Ireland’s clean electricity supply. We are also advancing the solar for schools programme, which successfully completed installations in over 2,000 schools as of 2025.”
“The motion draws attention to concerns regarding the State’s current trajectory, suggesting a lack of progress. The facts, however, demonstrate a very different reality. The EPA’s most recent emissions report confirms our progress, recording overall greenhouse gas, GHG, emission reductions for a third consecutive year. We saw a decrease of 6.8% in 2023, followed by a further 2% reduction in 2024. Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 35 years, despite the concurrent increase of approximately 1.5 million people, the construction of more than 1 million new homes and over 1 million additional vehicles on our roads. Work is ongoing across government every single day to accelerate climate mitigation efforts. We are undergoing a renewables-led energy transformation.”
“We must oppose this motion because it calls for a restatement of commitments already in law, does not reflect established statutory and parliamentary processes and fails to acknowledge the significant body of work under way across government. Let me be clear from the outset that the Government is fully committed to delivering on Ireland’s climate ambition across all sectors, and to progressing climate action in a planned and coherent way. Our approach ensures that sustainability, affordability, competitiveness and energy security remain central to policy. We are also acutely aware of the impact on households and businesses of recent increases in energy and fuel prices. Energy affordability is a core priority and that is why we have taken action by introducing one of the most comprehensive support packages in the European Union.”
“I very much welcome any opportunity to discuss sustainability, renewable energy, opportunities to reduce emissions and, of course, biodiversity and nature restoration. It strikes me, though, that we do not debate nature restoration and biodiversity enough in the House. Even in the 20 minutes the Opposition had to put forward their case on the motion, which alludes to nature restoration, ten seconds of it referenced biodiversity in nature. In fairness, Deputy Murphy referenced MPAs, Sitka spruce plantations and water quality but Deputy O'Gorman had ten minutes to begin and did not reference nature and biodiversity. It strikes me how low a priority nature and nature restoration are on the Opposition benches. That said, I welcome the opportunity to discuss the motion. The Government has tabled a countermotion.”
“I move amendment No. 1: To delete all words after "Dáil Éireann" and substitute the following: "affirms that, the Government: — is fully committed to delivering on Ireland's climate ambition across all sectors, and to progress climate action in a planned and coherent way in pursuit of the National Climate Objective of a climate neutral economy by 2050, in a way that ensures that sustainability, affordability, competitiveness and energy security are all central to our future climate planning; and — is acutely aware of the impact on households and businesses of the recent increases in fuel prices, and is progressing both immediate and longer-term measures to support households with these costs; notes that: — work is ongoing across the Government to deliver on climate commitments and accelerate climate mitigation efforts every day, supported by unprecedented Government funding across the National Development Plan (NDP), which will fund major upgrades to deliver carbon emission reductions, including major public transport projects, more efficient public buildings, and supports an €18.9 billion investment into the Irish electricity grid; — this Government is committed to the delivery of major public transport projects, the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport, published in November, provided €10.1 billion for public transport, as well as an additional €2 billion from the Infrastructure, Climate and Nature Fund to progress MetroLink, giving a total of €12.1 billion for public transport, this compares to an allocation of approximately €8.7 billion for roads capital investment; — the unprecedented €505 million worth of practical measures introduced by the Government on 12th April, included: — further reductions in excise duty on diesel, petrol and marked gas oil (green diesel) in addition to a deferral of the planned increase in carbon tax, scheduled 1st May until October 2026; and — reductions in excise duty, including the National Oil Reserves Agency levy reduction with effect from midnight on 14th April and will run until 31st July, 2026; — Government will also be establishing a new road transporters' support scheme, as well as supports for coach operators providing local link services, at a cost of €40 million per month for three months; — a comprehensive €100 million Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme to assist farmers, agricultural contractors and fishers will be put in place; — this package of supports is in addition to the measures announced in March, which included: — an expansion of the diesel rebate scheme, backdating it to January, to help sectors of the economy most impacted by the rise of fuel costs; and — an extension of the fuel allowance season to help the most vulnerable with the cost of home heating; — the Government has established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce, to identify and implement additional measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewable commitments and protecting security of supply and economic stability; — the Environmental Protection Agency's most recent emissions reporting confirms progress in delivering on climate action and records that Ireland has recorded overall greenhouse gas emission reductions for a third consecutive year, with a decrease of 6.8 per cent in 2023 followed by a further 2 per cent reduction in 2024, this is despite the concurrent increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads; — Ireland is a world leader in electricity generation from renewables which has increased fivefold since 2005, and that in February 2026 wind energy provided a record 50 per cent of the State's electricity; — Ireland has now reached a record circa 8 gigawatts (GW) of renewable generation capacity, up from 4.8 GW in 2020, and renewable energy provided half of Ireland's energy in March 2026; — the Government is committed to 5 GW of installed offshore wind capacity, with 5 Phase One projects all currently being progressed through the planning system, and the Government is also aiming for 20 GW of offshore wind by 2040 to help power a new green industrial revolution; — the Offshore Renewable Electricity Support Scheme Tonn Nua site, offshore wind auction was successfully concluded in November 2025; and — the 2025 Zero-Emission Vehicle Intelligence target for electrical vehicle sales of 195,000 was surpassed in October 2025, and Electric Vehicle sales are now at over 227,000; — the Climate Action Plan 2025 and its predecessor, Climate Action Plan 2024, provide a strong framework for continued delivery of climate action across all sectors each and every day, including measures and actions that are multi-annual in nature and effect, and the Government is committed to supporting their implementation; — projected costs of compliance with the European Union (EU) climate and energy targets have not been confirmed at this point in time and that there are several routes to compliance available within the overarching EU framework, and the Government's focus is on implementing the measures at hand; — the Critical Infrastructure Bill 2026 is a targeted piece of legislation that allows the Government to designate certain critical projects or programmes as critical infrastructure, including: — grid infrastructure which is vital for Ireland's climate, societal and economic objectives, it does not seek to undermine the functioning of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act; — climate considerations will continue to be fully integrated into decision-making processes, including through the planning system and national policy framework, even where limited and exceptional provisions apply; — the Government's position on the need for a State-operated Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve, in the form Liquified Natural Gas, has been clear - it is a priority project of a strategic nature required to mitigate the major consequences for our society and our economy that would arise if Ireland was to experience an interruption to our gas supplies via subsea interconnection; — the proposed Dublin Airport (Passenger Cap) Bill 2026 will enable the sustainable development of Dublin Airport, with full regard to environmental constraints, legal obligations, and the independent regulatory role of the Irish Aviation Authority, while supporting national connectivity and economic resilience; — the National Residential Retrofit Plan 2026, announced on 27th January, introduced a number of new and expanded measures to make energy upgrades more affordable, and accessible to many more homeowners; — in Budget 2026, the Government provided a record allocation of €640 million, targeting 73,000 home energy upgrades this year, this includes a record €340 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme which provides fully funded upgrades for those in energy poverty and will target 11,500 upgrades this year; — capital expenditure of over €1.7 billion has delivered over 257,500 home energy upgrades from 2019 to end Q1 2026, and there are already over 170,000 heat pumps in existing homes and businesses across the country; — the 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan, which was published in January 2024, strives for a 'whole-of-Government, whole-of-society' approach to the governance and conservation of biodiversity; — the finalisation of the Report for Phase 2 of the National Land Use Review is advancing with a view to publishing later this year; — work is ongoing on the general scheme of the Bill to amend the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021, to provide for marine protected area designation through the National Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) process with a view to bringing forward proposals this year; and — the MPA LIFE Ireland project (2024-2033) has been working at a practical level to help deliver Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Ireland in line with the DMAP process and the principles of public participation, co-design, co-development and co-delivery, this nine-year €25 million project co-funded by the EU will focus on the social, economic and ecological dimensions of MPA designation.".”
“However, there are complexities. Drafting was not straightforward and simple. It is not something that can be done overnight. However, I absolutely take the Deputy’s point that there is urgency. The Deputy wants to be able to go back to constituents in Donegal and say that what he is requesting is happening. However, I am here with good news: the regulations are in the very final stages. I cannot give an exact date as that would be unfair, but within the next few weeks the regulations should be signed by the Minister and, therefore, implemented. I sincerely hope this is the last time the Deputy has to raise this in the Chamber. I cannot give a date but the regulations are in the final stages.”
“I thank Deputy Gallagher again. I absolutely take his point and I appreciate the urgency of this. The families and constituents the Deputy represents right across the board have been severely impacted by defective blocks. They have had their lives turned upside down and have experienced significant upheaval. Regarding the amendment we are talking about and the regulations we are introducing on side-by-side construction, there is another layer of complexity and difficulty when it comes to those who may have had their houses formally adapted for mobility and the fact that it is not as straightforward as upping sticks and going to another home that is not adapted, as the Deputy quite rightly outlined. The latter is just not a possibility, which is why we agreed recently to introduce the amendment to change the existing arrangement.”