More than 80 countries, including Ireland, have signed a pledge to reduce methane emissions by 30 per cent before the end of the decade.
However, the Taoiseach has said the target is a global one – not a national obligation. The pledge will not form part of the Government’s climate action plan which is expected to be published on Thursday.
The plan is understood to include methane reductions of about 10 per cent but with larger reductions in other greenhouse gases to meet Ireland’s target of a 50 per cent reduction by 2030. This will include reductions in nitrous oxide emissions which like methane emanate from the agriculture sector.
On Wednesday’s Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Eddie Punch, ICSA General Secretary, from Cratloe and Joseph Woulfe, Clare Chair of Beef Plan Group to discuss what all of this will mean for farmers.
