Minister O'Brien welcomes Introductory Report from the Just Transition Commission
- Published on: 18 June 2025
- Last updated on: 19 June 2025
Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O'Brien has welcomed today's publication of the Just Transition Commission’s Introductory Report.
The report calls for an ambitious, joined-up, whole-of-Ireland just transition to a climate-neutral economy that will benefit all of society.
Speaking about the report, Minister O'Brien said:
"This introductory report from our new Just Transition Commission is a really important step for us as we continue to accelerate our green transition. There is no doubt that we are facing many challenges as a government and society, but we also have huge opportunity. We need to proactively listen to our people, our communities, our businesses, especially those most vulnerable and at risk. We need to better understand what particular challenges sectors of our society are faced with, and to put in place the right plans and measures to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive instead of being left behind. I met with the chair of the Commission Ali Sheridan recently, and I know that as a public voice and ear, the entire Commission are fully committed to learning directly from those most impacted. I am listening and learning too and looking forward to proactively driving a just transition, supported by the informed advice of the Commission."
ENDS
Notes to the Editor
The Just Transition Commission is an independent advisory body whose work is focused on bringing fresh thinking and a constructive, thoughtful approach to helping the whole of Ireland move faster and fairly on climate change. The Commission aims to serve not only as a public voice for just transition, but also as a public ear, learning directly from those on the frontlines of change.
The Commission's first report sets out several early reflections and recommendations on how a just transition to a climate-neutral economy can help Ireland deliver climate action that works for everyone, including the following key points:
- Just transition is not a new concept in Ireland, but until now it has largely been associated with the Midlands and the shift away from peat-based industries. To move forward, the conversation and awareness levels must shift beyond the Midlands, ensuring that just transition becomes a national priority for the whole of Ireland.
- A just transition cannot be reduced solely to energy policy or even climate action; it requires a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities across different sectors, communities and groups, such as rural, farming, coastal, the Midlands, people on low incomes, members of the Travelling community and other marginalised groups, among others
- There is a need for a strategic vision to a just transition and strengthened governance for effective implementation
- Build on the National Dialogue on Climate Action (NDCA) programme in terms of accessibility, affordability, accountability, and use of findings
- Integrate just transition into all public messaging and communication around climate action
- Establish indicators to support the monitoring and evaluation of Ireland's progress towards a just transition that accounts for those most affected or vulnerable to the transition
- Map and review available data and address gaps in collecting key just transition data through collaborative monitoring efforts