Cutbacks will not hit green investment, says Gormley
The Government will continue to invest in green issues despite the tough economic circumstances, it was promised today.
Green Party leader and Environment Minister John Gormley said it was even more important to look at environmental challenges at a time of economic difficulty.
"It is often said that during a time of economic downturn we can't afford the green agenda but I think during this downturn we have to make the investment because it will result in a transformation of the country," he said.
"You have to look at the example of the pharmaceutical industry where over the years we've gained a huge reputation in terms of the calibre of our graduates and it has resulted in more jobs and more innovation."
The minister made his comments at the fourth annual Environment Ireland conference, organised by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which examines how best Ireland will handle environmental challenges and commitments facing it.
Dr Mary Kelly, EPA director general, welcomed the minister's commitment.
"I acknowledge the minister's comment that the environment will not be left out," she said.
"There is a worry that we would go back on some choices made in the past and ignore the environment."
The minister said Ireland should now be looking to become a leader in the green technology sector in order to create new jobs and attract investment.
"If the world is to tackle climate change, then green technological innovation in transport, agriculture and energy is absolutely essential," he said.
"Such technological innovation provides one of the single greatest international market opportunities there is at present."
The two day conference at Croke Park, themed 'Achieving a Sustainable Ireland', will see expert speakers and delegates examining issues such as climate change, clean air and water resources.
