Govt urged to act on climate change
Wednesday, 18 November 2009 18:18
Ireland risks social and economic disaster from climate change, unless the Government takes urgent action, according to the Academy of Engineers.
Read the full report
Watch interviews with Minister John Gormley, FG's Simon Coveney and the IAE's Paddy Purcell
In a new report, the group says delivering critical infrastructure must be prioritised, otherwise the country risks polluted drinking water, extensive flood damage and power blackouts.
Today the Academy of Engineering published its report on climate change impacts, following discussions between 60 researchers, engineers, scientists and policy experts.
Among the dangers highlighted, the report says if we do not protect our cities, we will not be able to insure them, and our water sources are at risk from floods and droughts.
The group points out that Holland is spending €1.5bn each year on adapting to climate change and Ireland needs to act now.
The Academy also warns that failure to do so will put Ireland's society and economy at an unacceptable risk.
- RTÉ.ie Extra Video: John Gormley, Minister for the Environment, reacts to the report from the Academy of Engineering
- RTÉ.ie Extra Video: Simon Coveney, Fine Gael Spokesperson on Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, says now is the time to act
- RTÉ.ie Extra Video: Paddy Purcell, Irish Academy of Engineers, discusses the environmental problems facing Ireland and the planning that needs to take place
