The year just passed has the dubious distinction of having the warmest spring and summer on record. Together they contributed to the second warmest year on record, surpassed only by 2023.
Temperatures were almost a degree higher than the long-term average, while the highest ever wind speed was recorded in Donegal. A marine heatwave saw offshore temperatures of 4 degrees above average. These extreme weather trends are further evidence – if more was needed – that climate change is happening and happening quickly. They were expected and predictable, according to Met Éireann.
Equally predictable was the admission by the Minister for Climate, Darragh O’Brien, this week that Ireland will not even come close to meeting its EU target of reducing the emissions that drive climate change by 51 per cent by 2030.
The best case, according to the minster, is a 25 per cent reduction, but only if several large offshore wind farms come on stream. It is a very big “if”. The projects are either embroiled in planning delays or have not yet started the process.
RM Block
In theory, Ireland could face fines of up to €28 billion for failing to meet its EU targets. Given that other EU states - including Germany, France and Italy - are also unlikely to meet their targets there is speculation these penalties may be eased. But there are no guarantees.
Persuading the electorate of the necessity to suffer some pain now in return for future gain is arguably the most difficult and unrewarding task in politics. Likewise, persuading the inhabitants of an island associated with cold and wet weather that warmer summers are a bad thing is not easy.
Even with these difficulties, the Government can focus on projects that will reduce emissions significantly, while delivering a public benefit. This means removing obstacles to the build out of offshore wind. And the delivery of Metrolink and other public transport projects which can reduce transport emissions. Ireland may not meet its targets, but it needs to show more drive to get as close as possible to achieving them.
