The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Mr. Phil Hogan T.D, today 30 March 2012, outlined his support for Earth Hour 2012.

The Minister said: "Earth Hour is a unique worldwide initiative that allows people to express their support for the protection and improvement of our environment. It’s a demonstration that the solution to environmental issues must involve governments, businesses and individuals all working together towards the common goal of a better environment. I would encourage Irish people to show their support for Earth Hour again this year."

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Earth Hour takes place on Saturday night 31 March between 8.30pm and 9:30pm. It is a global initiative which aims to highlight the need for action to tackle the world’s environmental challenges, including climate change. Last year hundreds of millions of people in more than 5,000 cities and towns worldwide switched off their lights for one hour to demonstrate their support for the protection of the environment.

Iconic landmarks around the world will go dark for one hour on Saturday night including: Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building. They will be joined in Ireland by many public buildings and national monuments.

(CD/GK)