The Green Party has accused the Government of continuing with failed policies as it emerges that it is likely that the Irish State will have to purchase €150 million in carbon credits for failure to keep to  its 2020 greenhouse gas emissions targets.  

Green Party candidate in the European Elections and Dublin City Councillor Ciaran Cuffe said:

"This news does not come as a surprise. It is a damning indictment of failed Government policies that are continuing. More urban sprawl and motorways will continue to drive up Ireland's emissions. We need to change track and invest in proper planning, and sustainable transportation. Let's electrify our urban bus fleet; provide safe cycling routes and make it easier for all to choose low-carbon living. We need to bring our public housing up to an A-energy rating. This will tackle fuel poverty leave people with money in their pockets, and reduce Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions

"If elected to the European Parliament I will work hard to provide solutions that will reduce our emissions, rather than fund failed policies that increase our use of fossil fuels."

ENDS