Senator Lisa Chambers, representing Fianna Fáil as a candidate for the European Parliament in the Midlands-Northwest, has made a bold statement regarding her party's alliance with the Green Party and the impact on Ireland's economic development. She strongly believes that if the Government is serious about addressing the economic disparity between Dublin and the west of Ireland, it must reconsider its relationship with Eamon Ryan and the Green Party's climate-change agenda.
"The climate-change agenda, as it currently stands, is confining our regions to a 'green straitjacket', preventing us from capitalising on the incredible resources we have," said Senator Chambers. She has accused Mr. Ryan of impeding the progress of floating offshore wind farms along the Atlantic seaboard, which could position Ireland as a global leader in renewable energy.
Senator Chambers criticised the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, for not initiating the zoning of the west coast for the development of floating offshore wind farms, a move that has left Ireland lagging behind in an industry where it has unmatched potential. "Economists like David McWilliams have pointed out Ireland's opportunity to become the 'Qatar of renewable energy' with the right infrastructure. However, the Green Party's narrow focus and sluggish pace are preventing us from achieving this."
The Senator emphasised the immediate need for a new vision for the Green agenda within the Government, one that embraces economic growth, job creation, and investment attraction without side-lining environmental progress. "The Green Party's grip is stalling our stride towards a sustainable future where Ireland can offer something unique in the global market – green, sustainable energy," she stated.
Senator Chambers highlighted the importance of a holistic approach that encompasses not only decarbonisation but also considers the broader economic picture, ensuring Ireland remains an attractive destination for foreign direct investment. "Our corporate tax advantage is under global scrutiny, and we need to look beyond, to what's next. Standing still is not an option; it's time to harness the wind energy off our coast and let the west progress," she added.
With her eyes set on the European Parliament, Senator Chambers is determined to address the regional development imbalance and promote a more dynamic, inclusive approach to Ireland's Green agenda. "The relationship with the Green Party is no longer tenable; it's time for Fianna Fáil to advance a vision that aligns economic growth with our environmental goals," Chambers concluded.
ENDS