Hottest Year Ever Demands Urgent Governmental Action for Climate Crisis
Labour’s environment spokesperson Senator Rebecca Moynihan was reacting to reports that EU scientists have found that 2023 was the hottest year on record, globally and in Ireland. The pressing need for immediate reforms in transportation, housing, and agriculture has led to a call for a radical shift in policy.
Senator Moynihan said:
“The confirmed reports of 2023 as the hottest year globally and in Ireland are a wake-up call that demands our immediate attention. We cannot afford to delay decisive action in the face of such unprecedented climate challenges. It’s imperative that our government undertakes a swift and comprehensive approach to combat these climate crises.
“In Labour’s alternative budget we proposed a bold initiative of €9 per month for unlimited public transport across Ireland. This not only promotes greener travel but also addresses congestion issues and reduces individual carbon footprints significantly. Based on the German model, it would be the equivalent of taking 23,000 cars off the road.
“Additionally we also called for a retrofitting revolution focusing initially on local authority homes aiming to revolutionise energy efficiency. Retrofitting local authority homes will serve as a catalyst for change, not only improving living conditions but also significantly reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. This must mark the start of a larger-scale, nationwide initiative.
“Expanding the organic farming scheme is pivotal in transitioning our agricultural practices towards sustainability. It promotes biodiversity, contributing positively to our fight against climate change.
“The gravity of the situation necessitates an urgent, all-government approach. We urge Government to prioritise this issue across all departments. Only through united, radical changes can we mitigate the catastrophic impacts of climate change and safeguard our planet for future generations.”