Stop Climate Chaos (SCC) has welcomed the recent Cabinet decision to draft a climate change law, saying it is an important step forward in Ireland’s response to climate change.SCC, a coalition of organisations campaigning to stop runaway climate change, of which Eco Congregation Ireland is an active member, believes the climate bill should set the framework for Ireland’s action on climate.A statement issued by SCC says, “A robust climate law will be an important signal that Ireland is willing to play its part in tackling climate change before December’s climate talks. Ireland can, and should, play its part in delivering a fair and adequate climate deal. Strong action by Ireland can help lead the way into the Copenhagen talks. The bill now must ensure that action matches the science, by cutting emissions sufficiently to keep global warming below two degrees Celsius.”
“Around the word climate change is already having a devastating effect on millions of people’s lives as diseases spread, disasters increase and agriculture is disrupted. For them, a climate law which ensures that Ireland does what’s necessary to tackle climate change cannot come soon enough.”
Friends of the Earth believes the decision to draft a climate change bill is a significant achievement for the Greens in government. “A strong law will show that Ireland finally means business on climate change,” says director Oisin Coughlan. “It will hardwire action and accountability on climate change into the political system. It is also key to a low-carbon recovery that is economically and environmentally sustainable.
“A strong climate change law is the best way to make sure all departments across government, and all governments across time, take climate change seriously and take action consistently. And passing the law before the crucial UN summit in Copenhagen in December would be a very positive signal to the international community”.
Coughlan believes that the recent announcement shows that people can influence policy. Since the campaign for a climate law began in April 2007, over 50,000 SCC supporters have taken action in support of a law by contacting their TDs, signing petitions and taking part in demonstrations like the formation of a giant hourglass on Sandymount Strand.