Public consultation has been launched on the new climate plan for County Cork.

The Draft Strategy for Climate Adaptation 2019-2024 sets out a five year road map to identify key climate change risks for the county and to ensure climate adaptation actions and considerations are mainstreamed into policy making and all functions, operations and services of the local authority.

The Council has utilised regional, national and international data to predict the challenges and risks that climate change will pose for the county in the future.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey, said: "Local Authorities are at the front line when it comes to climate adaptation. This document assesses our risks and vulnerabilities and is a result of extensive research and engagement with stakeholders. It will ultimately facilitate the Council's ongoing commitment to ensuring sustainability and climate resilience in a strategic and proactive manner. Cork County Council encourages members of the public to review the strategy and to submit relevant observations in writing."

-- Advertisement --

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Christopher O'Sullivan commented: "Climate change presents real challenges but we have an opportunity here to take a proactive approach to strategically implement appropriate climate adaptive actions and to actively protect biodiversity. Plans outlined in the draft to actively support native tree planting for instance are fundamental to promoting biodiversity. This document is a significant step – we need to adapt to the changes that are already happening and take appropriate measures to protect our environment and our future. It is important that people take the time to review and contribute to the strategy as it will have long lasting impacts for everyone."

The Draft Strategy is open for public consultation until 5pm on 12 August 2019.

More information can be found on the Cork County Council website.

(CM/MH)