Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, Richard Bruton T.D. has called for a "step change" across government to respond to climate change.

The Minister is preparing to seek Cabinet approval on the development of an all of government action plan on the issue.

He will meet with the Cabinet tomorrow, 20 November, in an effort to work with government colleagues to develop new initiatives and timelines.

Speaking at the Fine Gael Ard Fheis at the weekend, Minister Bruton said: "Ireland is currently far off course to achieve the CO2 targets to which we have committed.

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"I want to make Ireland a leader in responding to climate change, not a follower. That will require a significant step change across government.

"Being a leader means acting now, stretching ourselves and seizing the enterprise opportunities in a low carbon economy, including the new circular and bioeconomies. Being a follower means the final costs of adjustment are much higher and opportunities much lower or completely lost.

"It will require a revolution in how we live. Every person, every community, every business, every home and every school will have to make changes in the way we live and work and learn. Nothing less will do if we are to make the changes that are needed to create a sustainable future for everyone," he concluded.

(CM/MH)