Ireland could be hit with a bill of up to €610 million for breaching its 2020 renewable energy and emissions targets, according to Sinn Fein.

Spokesperson on Climate Change Mr Brian Stanley TD said the party is concerned with the "inadequate approach" the government has taken towards tackling climate change.

Deputy Stanley said: "We have seen in the past how the Irish Government has made numerous platitudes to tackle Climate Change, however when it comes to action we continuously fall short. Ireland is certain to miss its EU 2020 target of 16% total consumption of energy from renewables.

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"The biggest factor in reducing emissions in Ireland over the past decade was the economic crash as opposed to any environmental initiatives taken by our government.

"A recent Environment Protection Agency (EPA) report has estimated that emissions in 2015 are projected to be 3.7% higher than in 2014, indicating that the economic state of the country is still dictating our carbon footprint.

"Ireland still heavily relies on fossil fuel for its energy supply, with 85% of total supply currently being imported. In order to tackle climate change, Ireland must produce its own energy from renewable sources.

"The potential economic consequences for Ireland not meeting its targets could be severe."

(CD/LM)