Clare County Council launch draft Climate Action Plan for public consultation
Clare County Council have launched their Draft Climate Action Plan for public consultation.
The action plan is now available for a second round of public consultation, with copies of the plan available both online and in libraries and council offices around the county.
A number of consultation meetings are also set to take place across the county in November.
The council has published the Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029, as required pursuant to Section 16 of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021. The draft plan aims to position County 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 sets out key actions that will support county Clare in its transition to becoming a climate resilient, biodiversity rich, environmentally sustainable and climate neutral economy by 2050. The actions of the plan not only look at how the council can transform its own operations and services, but also addresses what other organisations theyl can partner with and what supports it can give to local communities and individuals.
The first round of public consultation on the Draft Climate Action Plan took place during a six-week period from May 26 to June 23, 2023. 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.
The 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 the council’s engagement platform, ‘Your Say’, where feedback can also be provided through an online survey which will be open until November 23, 2023. Individuals, communities, and organisations can also provide written feedback directly to the council (referencing ‘Climate Action Plan’) or emailed feedback to [email protected].
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 November 23, 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.
Cathaoirleach of CCC, Cllr Joe Cooney, commented, “the council is proud to announce the release of our Draft Climate Action Plan, a significant milestone in our commitment to addressing climate change and securing a sustainable future for our county. 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, said “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 said, “This Climate Action Plan is our roadmap towards reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices. Implementation of this plan will result in widespread benefits for 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.”
The council recognises the importance of public consultation and listening to the opinions of the communities it serves. In that regard, 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, and Shannon Municipal District Office,Town Hall, on November 6; West Clare Municipal District Office Ennistymon, and Killaloe Municipal District Office, Scariff, on November 7; and Civic Room, Buttermarket Building, Drumbiggle Road, Ennis on November 8.
To view the draft plan and complete the online survey visit yoursay.clarecoco.ie/climate-action-plan.