The Government unveiled its latest climate action plan on Wednesday, making fresh commitments to extend renewable energy, expand public transport and reduce private car use to cut Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions.
The plan contained strong indications that heavily disincentivising private car use will form a significant part of the strategy to reduce carbon emissions in the transport sector.
It says that “potentially effective measures include removing free workplace parking; increasing parking charges; introduction of congestion and road user charging; and increased fossil fuel prices”.
It adds: “Greater prioritisation and reallocation of existing road space towards public transport and active travel will be a key supporting element.”
Are you willing to change your behaviour to help reduce Ireland’s emissions? Do you think you can cut your car usage? If you live in rural Ireland, the plan says that 70 per cent of people living in these areas are to have buses that go three times a day to the nearest town. Would that be a regular enough service for you? Would it be possible for you to reduce your car use in favour of public transport, walking or cycling?
Please share you thoughts using the form below. A selection of the submissions will be published in The Irish Times. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, please indicate this in your submission — we will keep your name and contact details confidential.