€100 Billion for Regions Impacted by Transition from Fossil Fuels

The European Commission has published a plan for €1 trillion in green investments. It’s money which, says the Green Party, could play an important part in transitioning Ireland into a Greener future.

The plan, which includes a Just Transition Mechanism worth around €100 billion, is designed to support EU regions most affected by the transition away from fossil fuels.

Welcoming the news, Limerick Green Party General Election candidate and Spokesperson on Energy, Brian Leddin, said the news should be good for Ireland.

“Most notably, the fund could support workers and communities impacted by the end of coal-burning at Moneypoint power plant and the closure of peat-fired power plants,” he said.

“In a further positive development, the fund could see workers and communities move into more sustainable areas of employment and development.”

With stipulations around access to funding, governments will only be able to avail of the Just Transition Mechanism once their national transition plans are accepted and agreed to by the Commission.

“It will be up to the incoming government now, to see Ireland take full advantage,” said the Green Party Ireland South MEP Grace O’Sullivan. “It’s a challenge that we in the Greens, as the party with proven credentials in this area, will be demanding action around.

“No worker or community should be left behind in the transition away from fossil fuels. With the right investment, funds like the Just Transition Fund can revitalise communities, and build new local economies while protecting our environment.”

Expressing optimism at the European Commission’s commitment to the environment, Dublin MEP Ciarán Cuffe said Ireland must grasp the opportunity.

“We all know just how urgent this is. A Just Transition can deliver warmer homes, better public transport and new jobs for the Midlands. We need a new Irish Government that backs a European Green Deal to make this happen.”