Govt looks at alternative ways to reduce emissions

Transport Minister Seamus Brennan has revealed that the Government is examining alternative ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions after abandoning its plans to introduce carbon taxes.

The Department of Finance confirmed today that the plan had been scrapped because the environmental benefits would not justify the increased cost on businesses and consumers.

Environment Minister Martin Cullen was planning to introduce carbon taxes from next January as part of efforts to meet Ireland’s commitments under the Kyoto Protocol on reducing harmful emission.