Taoiseach to visit Earth Summit

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is attending the Earth Summit in South Africa this morning in the wake of the controversial passing of a new “Energy Accord”.

Environmental groups have all slammed the late night deal, which is a victory for the US and the OPEC states.

The EU wanted targets set on renewable energy but the delegates representing over 190 countries stopped short of such a move last night.

Instead negotiators agreed to a commitment to urgently increase the use of renewable energy sources.

Compromises were also reached in relation to climate change, trade and sanitation.

The Taoiseach’s visit comes as delegates draw close to agreement on a final draft to be signed at the end of the summit tomorrow.