The Government has been called by Friends of the Earth for Ireland to be fossil fuel free by 2050.

Commenting, Friends of the Earth Policy and Campaigns Manager, Kate Ruddock, said :"This is a golden opportunity for the Government to set out a positive vision for Ireland to be fossil-fuel free by 2050. We are rich in renewable energy resources. Economic opportunity and environmental sustainability can go hand-in-hand in our transition to a low-carbon economy.

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"What's essential now is that ministers and officials really engage the public in a meaningful debate. Countries like Germany and Denmark have developed a sense of national purpose around the transition to renewable energy and, crucially, high levels of community ownership of renewables, which gives local people a real stake in the process."

Friends of the Earth is urging the Government to develop an energy policy that is economically, socially and environmentally sustainable.

(CD)