*Pictured launching the Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 are (l-r): Pat Dowling, Chief Executive, Clare County Council; Cllr Joe Cooney, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council; and Siobhán McNulty, Acting Director of Physical Development, Clare County Council. Photo: Eamon Ward
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL has published its Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029.
Aiming to position Clare as a national leader in climate action and strengthen the delivery of effective climate action at local and community levels, through place-based climate action, the plan was published as required pursuant to Section 16 of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021.
Under the plan, Clare aspires to become a climate resilient, biodiversity rich, environmentally sustainable and climate neutral economy by 2050. The actions of the plan not only look at how Clare County Council can transform its own operations and services, but also addresses what other organisations the Council can partner with and what supports it can give to local communities and individuals.
During a six week period from May 26th to June 23rd of this year, the first round of public consulation was held. Over 250 responses were submitted with feedback coming from the general public, students, community groups and local businesses. The feedback received during this public engagement has informed the final draft of the plan.
Potential benefits of the Climate Action Plan extend far beyond reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing this plan, it is envisioned that further investment in renewable energy, green infrastructure and sustainable transportation will create new employment opportunities within the county, fostering economic growth and prosperity.
The Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 is available to view on Clare County Council’s engagement platform, ‘Your Say’, where feedback can also be provided through an online survey which will be open until 23rd November, 2023. Individuals, communities, and organisations can also provide written feedback directly to Clare County Council (referencing ‘Climate Action Plan’) or emailed feedback to climate@clarecoco.ie
A copy of the Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 with associated Strategic Environmental Assessment Report and Natura Impact Report will be on public display until 23rd November, 2023, and is available to view online and may also be inspected during normal opening hours at the following locations, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Shannon Municipal District Office, Town Hall, Shannon, West Clare Municipal District Office, Town Hall, The Square, Kilrush, Ennistymon Area Office, Ennis Road, Ennistymon, Killaloe Municipal District Office, Mountshannon Road, Scarriff, and Public libraries in Ennis, Kilrush, Ennistymon, Shannon and Killaloe during opening hours.
Publishing the plan is “a significant milestone in our commitment to addressing climate change and securing a sustainable future for our county,” said Cllr Joe Cooney (FG), Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council. “This vital document represents a roadmap to address the pressing climate challenges we face and enhance the well-being of all our residents.”
Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, said, “At Clare County Council, we understand the urgency of addressing climate change and the importance of involving our community in shaping our response. We are excited to launch a public consultation process to gather valuable input from our stakeholders and the wider public. The opinions and ideas of all sectors around the county are crucial to the success of this plan, and we encourage you to participate actively in this consultation”.
Siobhán McNulty, Acting Director of Physical Development in Clare County Council, stated, “This Climate Action Plan is our roadmap towards reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices. Implementation of this plan will result in widespread benefits for County Clare including a healthier environment for everyone in the county. We are keen to hear from individuals, businesses, community groups, and organisations of all sizes. Your insights will help us refine and tailor this plan to meet our shared climate goals.”
Consultation evenings will be held where staff will be available during the hours 5:00pm to 7:00pm to provide guidance on the Draft Climate Action Plan and on the consultation process. The dates and venues are as follows, West Clare Municipal District Office Kilrush, Town Hall, Kilrush (November 6th), Shannon Municipal District Office, Town Hall, Shannon (November 6th), West Clare Municipal District Office Ennistymon, Ennis Road, Ennistymon (November 7th), Killaloe Municipal District Office, Mountshannon Road, Scariff (November 7th) and the Civic Room, Buttermarket Building, Drumbiggle Road, Ennis (November 8th).
To view the draft plan and complete the online survey visit: https://yoursay.clarecoco.ie/climate-action-plan
