Midlands Local Authority Highlight Farmers In Climate Debate

Tuesday, 24 October 2023 06:30

A draft climate plan is being developed by Westmeath County Council.

Everyone needs to be brought on board if a local climate action plan has any hope of success.

That was the feeling amongst Westmeath County Council in the discussion of the draft plan.

Local authorities must have adopted a Climate Action Plan by the end of February 2024.

A draft plan has been presented to and debated by Westmeath County Council for the county; covering areas including agriculture, transport and residential.

Fine Gael Councillor Tom Farrell said that there is no denying that "there needs to be change" and that everyone be brought on board rather than simply be told what to do.

He emphasised the particular need to bring farmers along.

Labour Councillor Denis Leonard agreed with his fellow councillor that they should have consultation "with a capital C" and the need to include people from across all sectors, especially agriculture.