The future is green, but we need visionaries to spark the revolution

AS we enter a period of unprecedented economic, social and political crisis, I am amazed at the lack of an alternative vision and programme of action to meet these challenges from any section of Irish society.

With the onset of global warming and a looming economic depression now is the time for this country to become energy self-sufficient as a springboard for future growth and continued prosperity.

As low corporation tax was a factor in the emergence of the Celtic Tiger, so green energy sustainability could be the engine for Ireland’s future economic viability and social progress.

We must begin immediately to reduce our reliance on the imported fossil fuels of oil and gas. This entails a concerted and rapid response from Government and its agencies, research institutions and universities to plan for energy generation from wind, waves, tides and biomass. We need to set targets now and penalise ourselves if we don’t keep to them. What about the year 2020 for 50% of electricity from the sources I’ve mentioned?

Now is the time for a private and public partnership programme of investment in building and erecting windmills, tidal barrages and biomass plants for both electricity generation and transport. We should move speedily to electrically powered private and public transport systems. Why can’t we be the first country in Europe to move to mass usage of the electric car?

Just think of the employment and investment opportunities in the implementation of such a programme.

We have the knowledge, skills and expertise, but where are the men and women with the necessary belief, vision and commitment to take responsibility to lead us to a bright, green sustainable future for all generations on this island.

Glenn Phillips

Creamery Road

Brosna

Tralee

Co Kerry