Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn has hit out at the impact on carbon tax and climate targets on Irish households, saying that citizens here should not be punished for “what happens in China.”
The Cork TD pointed out that while Ireland accounts for roughly 0.1 percent of global CO₂ emissions, China, the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, accounts for close to 30 percent. India, meanwhile, accounts for around seven per cent. This compares with the entire European Union, which accounts for about 6 to 7 percent combined, said the TD.
However, Irish families are facing a carbon tax of €56 per tonne, rising legislatively to €100 per tonne by 2030.
That has translated into higher heating bills, higher fuel costs, and higher transport and food prices passed through the system, said the TD. O’Flynn said that while “climate action matters,” policy must be appropriate.
Ireland, he said, cannot meaningfully influence global emissions by making life less affordable for its own citizens, particularly when the largest emitters continue to expand output.
Speaking on RTE Radio 1, the TD asked: “Why is it that Ireland always has to put the hands up and say, ‘We’re going to be the best in class?’”
“We’re going to punish our own citizens for things that are happening in China, things that are happening in India, things that are happening in Cambodia. I’m not in favour of punishing our own citizens for things that are happening in China.”
“We shouldn’t be punishing our own citizens for what’s happening in Cambodia and China and the rest of it. We shouldn’t be increasing and putting additional taxes on people,” he added.
“It’s hard enough – God knows it’s hard enough – to pay your own bills these days, but when you are punishing your own citizens. I think the European Union, Ireland included, should be looking and talking to these big players who aren’t pulling their weight in the world.
“We should be looking at where we’re buying our products, where we’re importing our products from, and what we’re doing,” he told the programme.
“Can I say that what you’re saying seems idiotic because you can only look after yourself, right? And by not meeting climate targets, do you accept that you’re punishing Irish citizens?” presenter Cormac Ó hEadhra asked O’Flynn.
‘Are you telling me that by Ireland meeting all its climate targets, we’re going to click our fingers and the world’s climate problem is going to be solved?” O’Flynn hit back.
“Because that to me, is idiotic […] that’s what you’re suggesting.”
“No, no, its’ not,” the RTE presenter said. “Roll back the tape and listen to yourself,” said O’Flynn.
“So you’re saying every country can only look after themselves?” Ó hEadhra probed.
“That’s what I would have thought,” answered O’Flynn. “But we’re part of a European Union that can move together as one.”
“Why are you talking about China then?” asked the presenter.
“Because China, this may come as a big surprise to you, but China is one of the biggest polluters in the world, along with India. Have you done any research at all about this?” Deputy O’Flynn replied.
Speaking on Wednesday, Deputy O’Flynn Ireland cannot meaningfully influence global emissions by making life less affordable for its own citizens, particularly when the largest emitters continue to expand output.
“We need coordinated international action. We need fairness for working families, and we need an honest conversation about the real drivers of the cost of living. Watch and judge for yourself.”
O’Flynn’s comments come after Minister for Climate Darragh O’Brien confirmed last month that the State will only reduce its greenhouse emissions by half of its 51 per cent target by 2030. This means that Ireland will be liable to pay a fine of up to €28 billion by 2030 to the EU.