The Government has launched a public consultation on the new National Adaptation Framework which is published under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015-2021.

Opening the consultation, the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan said: "Climate change results in impacts that affect all of society and it’s an imperative that we address the risks and ensure that we have a fit-for-purpose strategic policy in place to ensure that Irish infrastructure, society and communities are resilient to these impacts.

"This will require a whole-of-Government and society effort. This consultation provides an opportunity for citizens to assist in the development of the new National Adaptation Framework and to help us to address this significant issue."

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Climate adaptation is the process of adjustment to actual or expected climate change and its effects. It is a collection of proactive measures that are taken over time to build the resilience of the economy and society to the impacts of climate change. Adaptation ultimately seeks to minimise the costs of climate change impacts and maximise any opportunities that may arise.

In accordance with Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Acts 2015-2021, the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications published a National Adaptation Framework in 2018.

The existing National Adaptation Framework was reviewed in 2022, incorporating feedback from key sectoral, Departmental and agency stakeholders and the public. The review recommended the drafting of a new National Adaptation Framework.

A revised draft of the National Adaptation Framework will be prepared following this public consultation and submitted to the Government seeking approval in 2024.

The public consultation is open until 19 February.