Clare County Council has published the Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 which aims to position the County Clare as a national leader in climate action.

The plan aims to strengthen the delivery of effective climate action at local and community levels, through place-based climate action. Key actions that will support County Clare in becoming a resilient, sustainable and climate neutral economy by 2050 have been highlighted in the plan.

Clare County Council's Draft Climate Action Plan also focuses on how Clare County Council can transform its own operations as well as addressing other organisations the Council can partner with. The potential benefits of the plan extend beyond reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By implementing this plan, it is envisioned that further investment in renewable energy, green infrastructure and sustainable transportation will create new employment opportunities within the county, fostering economic growth and prosperity.

During the first round of public consultation over 250 responses were submitted from the general public, students, community groups and local businesses. This feedback has informed the final draft of the plan.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Cooney, said: "Clare County Council is proud to announce the release of our Draft Climate Action Plan, a significant milestone in our commitment to addressing climate change and securing a sustainable future for our county. This vital document represents a roadmap to address the pressing climate challenges we face and enhance the well-being of all our residents."

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Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, said: "At Clare County Council, we understand the urgency of addressing climate change and the importance of involving our community in shaping our response. We are excited to launch a public consultation process to gather valuable input from our stakeholders and the wider public. The opinions and ideas of all sectors around the county are crucial to the success of this plan, and we encourage you to participate actively in this consultation."

Siobhán McNulty, Acting Director of Physical Development in Clare County Council, stated: "This Climate Action Plan is our roadmap towards reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices. Implementation of this plan will result in widespread benefits for County Clare including a healthier environment for everyone in the county. We are keen to hear from individuals, businesses, community groups, and organisations of all sizes. Your insights will help us refine and tailor this plan to meet our shared climate goals."

The Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 is available to view on Clare County Council’s engagement platform, 'Your Say'. Feedback can also be provided through an online survey. A copy of the Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 will be on display until 23 November 2023 at the following locations:

• Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis

• Shannon Municipal District Office, Town Hall, Shannon

• West Clare Municipal District Office, Town Hall, The Square, Kilrush

• Ennistymon Area Office, Ennis Road, Ennistymon

• Killaloe Municipal District Office, Mountshannon Road, Scarriff, and

• Public libraries in Ennis, Kilrush, Ennistymon, Shannon and Killaloe during opening hours.

A public consultation on the Draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 will be held from 5.00pm to 7.00pm at the following locations on the given date:

• West Clare Municipal District Office Kilrush, Town Hall, Kilrush - 6th November

• Shannon Municipal District Office, Town Hall, Shannon - 6th November

• West Clare Municipal District Office Ennistymon, Ennis Road, Ennistymon - 7th November

• Killaloe Municipal District Office, Mountshannon Road, Scariff - 7th November

• Civic Room, Buttermarket Building, Drumbiggle Road, Ennis - 8th November