Today’s confirmation from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that Ireland is not prepared for the potentially catastrophic impact of climate change is extremely concerning, according to Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s spokesperson on climate, said:
“The findings of the first-ever National Climate Change Risk Assessment confirm our worst fears – that the country faces immediate critical risks from extreme weather events, which will become increasingly catastrophic as the century progresses.
“Many aspects of how we function as a society will be affected by very strong winds and flooding, including the security of our power supply and other vital services. Urgent action will be required to provide protections in the face of this growing threat to homes, businesses, farms – and even lives.
“The report’s conclusion that Ireland is not prepared for these future risks will come as no surprise to those most impacted by Storm Éowyn earlier this year, where hundreds of thousands of customers were left without electricity or water supply – some for several weeks.
“The country’s inability to withstand extreme weather events was laid bare during the last major storm – and we can expect more of the same in the future if the government does not urgently get to grips with its climate action responsibilities.
“We need to invest now in climate action, while also putting essential protections in place to maintain critical infrastructure and safeguard homes, businesses and farms during violent storms.
“We must also improve the process of identifying our most vulnerable citizens – and prioritising supports for them – when extreme weather events hit.
“We are already seeing the effects of climate change in real-time. The government cannot continue to bury its head in the sand.”
June 4, 2025