Explaining the importance of environmental protection, Dr Kelly said,

“It is crucial that Ireland keeps environmental protection centre-stage. Ireland’s environment is a key strategic asset for the country, which we must protect, manage and invest in to secure a healthy society and a strong, low-carbon and greener economy into the future.  The transition to a genuinely low carbon and resource efficient economy has substantial benefits, not only for the environment, but also for the health and well-being of society.”

In terms of investment, Dr Kelly said,

“Recent water shortages illustrate how fragile our infrastructure can be.  We need to continue to invest in Ireland’s green infrastructure, including waste water treatment and waste management facilities, so that the basic building blocks for a clean and well-protected environment are in place and functioning properly.”

On the issue of Climate Change Dr Kelly commented:

“Major challenges still exist in achieving real reductions in greenhouse gases which should not be underestimated. The EU 2020 target is particularly difficult for Ireland to achieve as it excludes those sectors covered by the Emissions Trading Scheme and applies to agriculture, transport, residential and other sectors, where it is much more difficult to achieve reductions. The new Climate Change Response Bill, when enacted, will provide a framework for developing a new Climate Change Strategy to achieve the required targets.

“Developing policies and measures which see Ireland significantly increasing energy efficiencies and its use of alternative energy sources is crucial,”she continued.

“We need radical changes in practice in all economic sectors particularly energy, transport, and agriculture, and in our own lives. We also need a better understanding of climate change which is where research comes in.”