Ireland fails to meet climate change targets

Ireland has ranked second-worst in Europe for its efforts to tackle climate change, it was revealed in a report published by Climate Action Network Europe on Monday.

The country was rated only 21% for its efforts in tackling climate change, with the report saying that Ireland won’t meet the 2020 climate and renewable energy targets, and is unlikely to meet 2030 targets.

Ireland may face annual fines of €500 million if steps are not taken to reduce emissions.

“Not surprising in the slightest”

Sinn Féin MEP, Lynn Boylan, has said that “it’s not surprising in the slightest that Ireland is at the bottom of this ranking”.

Boylan said that the Irish Government have shown a lack of commitment for tackling the issue of climate change.

She accused the government of “dragging its feet on climate action”, saying it has brought shame on the country.

Climate change targets

Ireland committed to climate change targets to be achieved by 2020 which included reducing carbon emission and using renewable energy.

The climate change targets were agreed and made legally binding, which means that if Ireland doesn’t reach its goals, the country will be fined.

The Climate Action Network Europe report has suggested that Ireland won’t be able to achieve the targets in the next 18 months and as a result the country faces €500 million in fines.

Dragging the people down

According to MEP Boylan, Ireland played a “negative role” during discussions for climate change laws, and pushed for “loopholes to dilute the laws”.

She said that the government need to step up and do more to achieve the targets given to Ireland for tackling climate change.

Boylan said that “the people of Ireland want a government that represents them” and not one that drags them down.