Hackett says ‘climate change is here’ as council launches action plan

Offaly councillor Mark Hackett has hailed the launch of Offaly's first ever Climate Action Plan as a milestone in Offaly County Council’s response to climate change.

Stating that climate change is here and is impacting Ireland and Offaly, Cllr Hackett described the council's plan as "far seeing and ambitious". He said: "It is informed by our national climate action plan and will serve as a roadmap for our climate work and actions. Serious effort and commitment will be required from all sectors of the community across the county to implement all 118 identified actions.

He said working alongside Offaly County Council these past years, it had been rewarding to witness how the council had acknowledged and identified the scale of the climate and biodiversity challenges and responded with focus and energy – in particular - through leadership, climate action, biodiversity and active travel teams.

"As a councillor, I have worked hard on climate change strategies for Offaly, since joining the council in 2019. As the only Green Party councillor and voice for the environment it can be tough.

"While the old adage ‘shoot the messenger’ comes to mind, the even older strategy of sticking our heads in the sand is no longer an option - the time is now!" he said. "That's why I commend Offaly County Council for the vision, the pace of change, and the ambition of Offaly’s Climate Action Plan and I look forward to working closely with them to bring about this much needed plan of action."