Despite having the most lenient targets in the EU, Ireland is the worst member in terms of emissions of carbon dioxide, the most significant greenhouse gas. Carbon dioxide emissions rates, published by the EU [European CO2 Emissions Trading Facts and Figures, August 2006],, indicated the rate for Ireland for 2005, is 22,379 tonnes.
In July 2006, the government released figures hoping to convince the Irish public that it has already cut emissions of greenhouse gases. However, this government presents a false picture of the real situation. The alleged reduction is mostly accounted for by factors which have little to do with the minimal government efforts The actual reductions are those forced by the EU regulations downsizing the size of the national cattle herd; the increase in the use of natural gas and the closure of Irish Steel and Irish Fertilisers.
MOTION
This EGP Council condemns the Irish Government for its failure to meet its Kyoto obligations. The Irish Government is failing to meet its obligations under Kyoto. The dangers predicted by reputable scientists are of little concern to the Fianna Fáil / Progressive Democrat coalition, who are pandering to vested interests, rather than facing up to global challenges. It calls upon the current Irish Government, in its last year of office, to make serious efforts to comply with its Kyoto obligations.”
