Fine Gael is calling for a Junior Cycle short course for young teenagers on Climate Action to begin "sooner rather than later".

Mayo Senator Michelle Mulherin made the call after confirming a new short course is to be developed for the junior cycle curriculum.

The new course has been introduced to complement the ongoing implementation of the National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development 2014 – 2020.

-- Advertisement --

She said: "The Climate Action Plan outlines that the course will be developed with the SEAI, the NCCA, the EPA and other key stakeholders for Junior Cycle at the end of next year.

"I am calling for this to be fast-tracked. We have already seen from the enthusiastic participation of students from around the country in climate change protests outside Dáil Éireann how well informed and proactive these young people are when it comes to protecting the environment.

"A key cornerstone of the Government's Climate Action Plan is making changes today that will ensure a more sustainable tomorrow.

"What better way than to engage with young teenagers as part of their school curriculum, especially when they are so interested in the topic. This course should be introduced sooner rather than later."

(CD)