Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
147. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment when he will publish the revised climate action plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14772/26]
View answerGovernment is committed to delivering on Ireland’s responsibility to address the climate crisis. We are making significant strides towards our renewable energy targets, prioritising the development of offshore wind capacity and have approved an investment of €18.9 billion in our Grid, supporting electrification of homes, businesses and transport. The 2025 target for EV sales was surpassed in October and I have just announced an unprecedented package of new and enhanced grants for homeowners under the National Residential Retrofit Plan.
Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 35 years, despite the concurrent demographic and economic growth with an additional 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads.
The Joint Committee on Climate, Energy and the Environment issued its report on the proposals for the second Carbon Budget Programme in October. The process around the carbon budgets was delayed due to the general election and the formation of Oireachtas Committees.
The carbon budgets have significant implications for our economy and society. They need to be carefully considered to ensure that, as the country transitions, affordability, competitiveness and energy security are paramount.
This process necessarily delays the completion of the next Climate Action Plan so that it can address these matters and the full Carbon Budget Programme. Climate Action Plan 2025 and the preceding plans are very comprehensive and their delivery is my top priority. In parallel work is underway, in anticipation of the outcome of the Carbon Budget process, with a view to bringing an updated Plan to Government later this year.
