Rolling list of achievements
[Updated 13 July 2010: list presented in reverse chronological order]
2010
8 July 2010: Approval of Civil Partnerships Bill a proud day for Ireland: Progressive legislation will make a real difference to people’s lives
6 July 2010: Delivering for those in mortgage arrears: Govt will implement recommendations from Mortgage and Debt Group report
1 July 2010: Stag hunting banned: Wildlife (Amendment) Bill passes through Oireachtas
1 July 2010: Cuts in politicians' expenses contributes to €33m saving for Leinster House: Green-led cuts saves taxpayers money
29 June 2010: State to reclaim windfall gains from power generators: Carbon Revenue Levy Bill will recover free carbon credits for the taxpayer
22 June 2010: Planning review initiated: Gormley appoints independent panel of experts to examine local authorities' actions
21 June 2010: New measures to protect wildlife from jet skis and quad bikes: Regulations will reduce damage to nature sites and wildlife
17 June 2010: Participation in Cycle to Work scheme increases by 125%: Bike shops report average of 43% of sales coming through scheme
3 June 2010: Establishment of advisory ministerial council on integration begins: White seeks expressions of interest
28 May 2010: Turf-cutting on protected bogs comes to an end: Derogation for cutting on sensitive peatland sites expires
26 May 2010: Ireland surpasses renewable energy target: We have already exceeded 2010 goal of 15% of electricity from green energy
24 May 2010: Another green light for electric motoring: Govt and Mitsubishi sign deal to make Ireland an e-vehicle test centre
24 May 2010: New Govt support price for bio-energy: Price will allow connection of over 200 MW of renewable electricity to the grid
21 May 2010: Gormley promises Green procurement action plan: €8 billion of public spending will be ‘greened'
18 May 2010: Cervical cancer vaccination programme begins for teenage girls: negotiated by the Green Party in new Programme for Govt
7 May 2010: Grant aid of €3.8m for horticulture growers: Cuffe says grants will cover capital investments in new facilities
30 April 2010: Free-to-air sports consultation opens: Ryan proposes that Heineken Cup, GAA matches and Cheltenham Cup are of major importance to society
26 April 2010: €2.5m campaign to tackle litter: scheme will support local authorities in keeping tourist areas clear of litter during the summer
22 April 2010: €5m investment in high-speed telecoms network: Ryan announces partnership with Intune Networks to establish the first exemplar communications test bed: technology which eliminates bottlenecks of data on networks
20 April 2010: Bill to ban deer hunting with dogs published: Stag hunting to come to an end
19 April 2010: Water Services Investment Programme 2010 – 2012 announced: 4,000 jobs will be supported through infrastructure repair and upgrade, with greater emphasis on water conservation. €93m allocated to rural water schemes
12 April 2010: €5,000 incentive to buy an electric vehicle: Drivers of electric vehicles will receive grant and pay no VRT. Ryan sets target of 10% of all vehicles to be electric by 2020.
30 Mar 2010: Gormley sets out plan for new waste policy: consultation begins on a draft Bill for the application of levies to landfills and incinerators.
26 Mar 2010: Eamon Ryan unveils the country’s first Electric Vehicle charge points: and marks the beginning of a nationwide infrastructure that will revolutionise transport in Ireland.
8 Mar 2010: €11.5m in funding for Conservation and Protection of Ireland’s Built Heritage: Funding will support conservation of protected structures, significant places of public worship and walled towns
5 Mar 2010: €100 million to improve homes of older people and people with a disability: Grants to improve or extend the private homes of older people and people with a disability represents a 31% increase on the initial allocations to local authorities in 2009
24 Feb 2010: Details of Dublin Mayor Bill published: Mayor will develop and oversee policy for the Dublin Region in land-use planning, housing, waste management and water services
9 Feb 2010: Biofuels Law presented to the Oireachtas: Bill will place an obligation on fuel suppliers to ensure that biofuels comprise 4% of their supplies
4 Feb 2010: Green tax incentive scheme extended: The Accelerated Capital Allowance Scheme allows companies to buy energy efficient equipment and write off its full cost against corporation tax in the year of purchase. Up to forty different technologies are included
31 Jan 2010: Ryan invites tenders for implementation of national postcodes: Ireland is the only EU country without this piece of information infrastructure
29 Jan 2010: New teaching posts announced: Education Minister outlines schools to receive extra teaching posts under the renewed Programme for Government
25 Jan 2010: Gormley outlines €300 million water conservation investment plan: review ordered to account for lost water
19 Jan 2010: Grant aid scheme for horticulture growers announced: Aid set at 40% (or 50% in case of young farmers) of total eligible capital investment. Horticulture retail sales are worth €650m to Irish economy
17 Jan 2010: €1.2m funding awarded to Animal Welfare organisations: 112 organisations across Ireland receive funding
15 Jan 2010: Cervical cancer vaccine to be introduced: Commitment was secured in renewed programme for Government
15 Jan 2010: Excessive conference spending to be curbed: John Gormley limits excessive spending by Councillors attending conferences
6 Jan 2010: Organic farming scheme reopens: Expenditure increases by 150% to €1.5m since 2007
2 Jan 2010: Testing phase begins on smart meters: Live trials will provide insight into future demand for National Smart Meter plan
2009
30 Dec 09: 34 farmers’ markets reach good practice standard: Guidelines announced by Trevor Sargent ensure best practice for local food sellers
23 Dec 09: Puppy farm legislation published: Dog breeding establishments must now be registered and licensed under new legislation by John Gormley. Local authorities will have power to close down unsuitable premises.
22 Dec 09: Ireland’s broadband subscriptions near 1.4 million Ryan welcomes Comreg report showing 17% increase in broadband prescriptions
14 Dec 09: Foreshore Bill to ensure ‘plan-led’ development: Transfer Bill welcomed by Environment Minister
14 Dec 09: Renewable energy use grows by 21%: Energy in Ireland report shows 21% in one year.
11 Dec 09: Ireland commits to reduce carbon emissions by 80% by 2050: Carbon Levy announced will make Ireland more energy efficient
10 Dec 09: Education protected in Budget 2010: Under revised Programme for Government education is protected from cutbacks
10 Dec 09: €12.9m for energy research: Budget 2010 also allocates €45m for telecommunications infrastructure and three year VRT exemption for electric cars
10 Dec 09: €130m for National Insulation Scheme: Investment in retrofitting projects increase under Budget 2010
10 Dec 09: Budget protects water spending: Despite cutbacks across all Departments, investment in water services infrastructure continues at €508m
7 Dec 09: Agreement reached on ‘supergrid’ for North Sea: Ryan signs agreement with eight other countries to examine the construction of an offshore wind energy grid
3 Dec 09: Civil Partnership Bill introduced to Dáil: New legislation will enhance taxation, inheritance and property laws for same-sex couples
2 Dec 09: End to upward only rent reviews: Upward only rent reviews for businesses will be banned
2 Dec 09: 15,400 jobs created since 2007 in Green economy: Ryan points to job creation by National Insulation Scheme and semi-state energy companies
30 Nov 09: €5.6m extra funding announced to support recycling facilities
30 Nov 09: Flood guidelines published: New guidelines prohibit development on floodplains and ensure flood risk assessment in planning applications and appeals
19 Nov 09: International waste review published: Landfill levy will increase to €30 per tonne, incineration levy will be €20-€38 per tonne; root and branch review of waste policy will benefit the environment and drive job creation
11 Nov 09: Refunds for overcharged customers using premium rate services: Eamon Ryan protects customers using premium phone and text services
9 Nov 09: New biofuels obligation for Irish fuel industry: Fuel suppliers must now include an average of 4% biofuels mix
5 Nov 09: 78% of new cars bought in 2009 are energy efficient: SEI report shows Green Party changes to tax and VRT systems have reduced carbon emissions by 12%
4 Nov 09: OECD commends Gormley on environmental leadership: Effort to strengthen environmental policies commended
2 Nov 09: Draft list of Ireland’s world heritage sites published: List compiled by expert group established by John Gormley
29 Oct 09: 30 new jobs announced for Mullingar: Under the National Broadband Scheme
25 October 09: 5000 jobs and €33m committed to Home Energy Scheme: 27,000 people apply to scheme: 5,000 construction workers and BER assessors have registered to carry out the work
19 Oct 09: €4.3 million invested in ten ocean energy companies. Major joint venture between Irish and Swedish company also announced
10 Oct 09: Revised Programme for Government published: New programme includes a commitment to maintain free fees for third level students and a ban on corporate donations. For a list of other highlights see here.
30 Sep 09: Broadcast Authority of Ireland established: New body to regulate and uphold highest standards in broadcasting
28 Sep 09: €500million investment in Irish electricity sector: European Investment Bank helps secure Ireland’s green electricity supplies
27 Sep 09: Guantanamo prisoners arrive in Ireland: Greens welcome the arrival of two prisoners held at the camp, having worked with international human rights organisations to facilitate their resettlement
21 Sep 09: New post code system announced: Introduction will ensure accuracy of postal deliveries and help the emergency services
18 Sep 09: New environment standards for press industry: Magazine and newspaper publishers commit to improved recycling and recovery targets
11 Sep 09: Guidelines announced to prevent the over-zoning of land: New procedures in the Planning and Development Bill will result in improved city and county development plans
9 Sep 09: Fixed support prices introduced for new categories of renewable energy: Govt will pay fixed tariffs for CHP, biomass, wind energy and wave and tidal energy for 15 years
4 Sep 09: Backyard burning targeted in pollution clampdown: €3,000 fine for those who break the law
31 Aug 09: EU introduces phased ban on incandescent bulbs: Following Ireland’s example spearheaded by Green Party Leader John Gormley
28 Aug 09: New organic body announced: Panel of experts on Foras Organach to drive the development of organic sector in Ireland
5 Aug 09: Carbon emissions fall by 9.2% across Oireachtas buildings: thanks to energy saving programme carried out in conjunction with the OPW
21 July 09: New digital technology strategy targets 30,000 jobs: Eamon Ryan announces six new infrastructure plans to target high-tech jobs
20 July 09: Local authorities to publish drinking water test results online: Transparent process will help improve water quality
17 July 09: Landscape conservation area announced for Tara-Skryne valley: National Monuments Bill 2009 sets out to protect archaeological monuments and sites of importance
8 July 09: Most car dependent town in Ireland receives cycling funding: €1.2million made available to Carrigaline in Cork for a new cycling and walking network
1 July 09: New electronic planning system will improve the efficiency of applications for both individuals and local authorities
30 June 09: Clampdown on text message and phone scams: Eamon Ryan announces legislation to regulate the premium rate telecommunication sector to protect consumers from exploitation
26 June 09: Civil Partnerships Bill published: Legislation will enable gay and lesbian couples to enter into a legally recognised union with rights and responsibilities
25 June 09: €200 charge on second homes will bring in an extra €40 million to help fund local Government
25 June 09: Post primary schools to receive high-speed broadband: First phase of project will see 78 schools switch from basic broadband to high-speed services
22 June 09: Next Generation Broadband Strategy published: Document forms part of a wider strategy to develop Ireland as a smart economy
17 June 09: 1.3 million subscribers to broadband in Ireland: Report shows numbers up by 28% since 2008
14 June 09: €16 million in insulation grants for 12,000 homes: Home energy scheme huge success as 2,000 tradespeople register to carry out home improvement works
4 June 09: €5million announced for cycling infrastructure: including city centre section of the Sutton to Sandycove cycleway in Dublin
2 June 09: New tenant purchase scheme introduced: Local authority tenants living in flats or apartments will now have the option of purchasing their home, which until now was not available
31 May 09: 10,000 green jobs created in 2009: Minister Ryan reveals that 50% of new jobs created this year are in the green economy
29 May 09: Best Practice for Farmers’ Markets launched: New guide will include a green flag system to encourage higher standards at markets
28 May 09: Planning Bill published: New bill will ensure transparency, openness and democratic involvement in planning process to avoid rezoning disasters of the past
24 May 09: On the spot fines for nuisance noise: New noise laws designed to improve people's quality of life.
21 May 09: Task Force on green economy announced: High level action group to work across Government institutions and Departments in the delivery of green jobs
13 May 09: €13 million market development plan for waste: Plan will target entrepreneurs, third level institutions and waste organisations, creating jobs and transforming waste
12 May 09: Directly elected Mayor for Dublin: Mayor will be charged with delivering reliable, integrated and cost effective transport for Dublin; new role will transform public’s connection with local government
23 April 09: E-voting machines scrapped: John Gormley announces process to address the disposal of the electronic voting and counting equipment and termination of storage arrangements
16 April 09: 3,700 green jobs created by ESB: Green policies leading to the creation of jobs in the areas of smart meters, smart networks, electric vehicles, wind energy, home insulation and green technology
14 April 09: 8% increase in cycling in Dublin: New study shows that cycling grew by 8% in 2008. Since the opening of the Port Tunnel cycling has increased by a third in the capital
8 April 09: Environmental NGOs to join in social partnership talks: Introduction of environmental and sustainability pillar into the social partnership process is a major institutional change
7 April 09: Local Election spending limits apply from today: John Gormley’s measures will help level the political playing field
3 April 09: New electric vehicle agreement signed: Eamon Ryan and the ESB sign Memoranda of understanding with Renault-Nissan to ensure the delivery of electric vehicles to the Irish market
30 March 09: New nitrates regulations announced: Improved farmyard management and enhanced enforcement powers for local authorities will ensure Ireland meets its EU commitments on protecting water from farm contamination
29 March 09: Green Party launches Get Ireland Growing: A campaign to encourage the growth of food at home, in allotments and community gardens
25 March 09: Home Energy Scheme launches: From today Sustainable Energy Ireland will accept applications from householders wishing to save money and energy by insulating their properties.
19 March 09: One third of Irish companies choose green cars: Survey shows changes to the VRT and motor tax system have encouraged businesses to switch to greener company cars
13 March 09: Bank bosses salaries capped: Dan Boyle says the move will haul the banking system back from obscenely high salaries and bonuses paid to bank executives in the past
3 March 09: Govt moves to invest in ethical pension funds: Move will ensure funds are not invested in questionable enterprises such as the arms trade
26 Feb 09 Incentives for micro-generation announced: Farmers and householders can now sell excess electricity back to national grid at a guaranteed price of 19 cent per kilowatt
18 Feb 09: Legal framework to ensure transparency and accountability for charities introduced. The legislation will protect against bogus charity workers
10 Feb 09: Incredible Edible campaign launched with packs going to every primary school in the country. Food Minster Trevor Sargent, who oversaw the campaign says it will encourage children to grow their own food and learn about health and nutrition
10 Feb 09: Limits announced on local election spending. John Gormley says it will create a level playing field for all parties
8 Feb 09: €100m national insulation scheme announced. Scheme which will create 4,000 jobs, upgrade 50,000 homes and save householders €700 per year on heating bills
5 Feb 09: Government launches ‘Smarter Travel - A Sustainable Transport Future’ which commits to getting 500,000 commuters out of their cars and 150,000 extra workers cycling every day. The plan will slash CO2 emissions by 4 million tones.
4 Feb 09: Double digit decrease in energy prices will be introduced this year, as Eamon Ryan announces Commissino for Energy Regulation Review
30 Jan 09: Additional €4 million announced to fund Galway water infrastructure
28 Jan 09: European Commission awards €100m to fund an electricity interconnector between Ireland and the UK to secure energy supply
26 Jan 09: Europe announces it will ban energy inefficient lightbulbs. Following Ireland’s lead the EU phases out will begin in September 2009.
19 Jan 09: One of the largest recycling plants in Europe opens at Ballymount, Dublin
12 Jan 09: Emergency accommodation for homeless in Dublin City announced by John Gormley as temperatures continue to drop
6 Jan 09: New water conservation regulations signed by John Gormley
1 Jan 09: New energy rating system introduced for all homes for sale or rent. The BER system will rate each home on its energy efficiency, with A being the highest and G the lowest.
1 Jan 09: Green Party launches campaign to promote the Cycle to Work scheme introduced in Budget 2009. Workers will receive up to €1,000 tax break to buy a bicycle and accessories
2008
31 Dec 08: €2 million donation to the UN World Food Programme (WFP) to provide food aid in Ethiopia announced by Food Minister Trevor Sargent
31 Dec 08: Statutory planning guidelines for urban areas announced. John Gormely says guidelines will act as a blueprint for sustainable development in Irish cities, towns and villages
30 Dec 08: €24m funding for local authority recycling initiatives highlighted by John Gormley, covering 47 waste recycling projects
22 Dec 08: €1,250,000 to assist 110 animal welfare organisations in 2009
19 Dec 08: Report showing organic retail market has grown by 82% in the last two years welcomed by Food Minister Trevor Sargent
18 Dec 08: Government launches ‘Framework for Sustainable Renewal’, a document outlining a €30 billion investment over ten years in clean, green energy to create jobs
15 December 08: Broadband use increases by 6.7%: Communications Minister Eamon Ryan releases figures showing 1,125,080 people in Ireland are signed up to broadband. €1.247 million announced under the BenefIT scheme for 12 local voluntary, not-for-profit organisations to support late adopters of technology.
12 December 08: Agreement reached on EU climate change package: Environment Minister John Gormley welcomes first steps towards new global climate change agreement, as 27 countries, including Ireland, take on post-Kyoto greenhouse gas emission targets.
26 November 08: 10% of Ireland’s transport fleet to go electric by 2020: Eamon Ryan launches plan to electrify 250,000 cars. National task force to oversee rollout which includes tax incentives for business and assistance and guides for those looking to switch to electric vehicles.
25 November 08: €2 million grant aid to support planting of bioenergy crops: Third phase of Bioenergy Scheme will see the plantation of 1,800 hectares of miscanthus and willow to be used in the production of renewable energy.
20 November 08: Finance Bill published with Green elements: New Cycle to Work scheme aimed at tempting commuters out of their cars will include electric bikes. Elimination of the ‘Cinderella’ tax which allows wealthy people to avoid paying tax in Ireland and 3% income levy on earnings over €250,000 announced. Car parking levy to apply to five main cities and Government to seek changes to the EU VAT directive to include provision for ratings on environmental grounds.
18 November 08: Quality of rented accommodation improved: Bedsits to be phased out and landlords now required by law to maintain gardens and shared areas. Improvements in heating and safety of accommodation with fines increased for landlords who don’t meet new standards.
13 November 08: Warmer Homes Scheme to tackle fuel poverty: Government, ESB and Bord Gais to invest €15 million installing energy saving measures in low-income homes. The scheme will be administered through local community groups.
6 November 08: Way forward announced for Corrib gas project: Eamon Ryan in conjunction with rural affairs Minister Eamon O Cuiv propose initiative to foster economic development in the region. Community forum to engage with all relevant local community and interest groups.
1 November 08: Progress on extraordinary renditions: Irish Government to make a direct approach to the United States on Extraordinary Rendition, Guantanamo Bay and the use of torture. New cabinet committee on international human rights will examine and strengthen legal provisions to ensure Gardai and airport authorities have adequate legal powers for search and inspection of aircraft.
15 October 08: John Gormley delivers Carbon Budget: Figures show greenhouse gas emissions fell by 1% in Ireland in 2007. 85% of new cars purchased after changes to the VRT and motor tax this year are in the lowest three bands. €5 million was announced to upgrade cycle paths in Dublin along with a new cycle to work scheme. €20 million will be provided for the Home Energy Saving Scheme this year and €10 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme.
14 October 08: Budget 2009: Under difficult circumstances, the green elements to the Budget included: 19% increase in investment in water infrastructure. Increase in social welfare and pension payments. €200 levy on second homes to fund local authorities. A Cycle to Work scheme and levy on urban car parking spaces. €20 million allocated to the Home Energy Savings Scheme and €5 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme.
9 October 08: Consultation on lightbulbs launched: From March 2009 incadescent lightbulbs will be removed from the market to cut down on Ireland’s carbon emissions.
8 October 08: New plan for national electricity grid: Investment of €4 billion will allow for major increases in amounts of renewable energy supply
29 September 08: New target for biofuels announced: Eamon Ryan proposes a new target of 4% by volume of transport fuel to be derived from biofuels by 2010 and attaches the condition that biofuels must come from sustainable resources
26 September 08: Free battery recycling begins: Consumers can now return batteries for recycling to authorised collection points, retail outlets and local authority civic amenity sites free of charge.
22 Septembe 08: Draft guidelines on flood risk management published: The draft guidelines prevent planning and development on floodplains and areas at risk of flooding
18 September 08: Local election spending to be restricted: John Gormley announces that limits will be put in place for candidates’ campaigns in the local elections to ensure fair competition among all candidates.
15 September 08: Smart Meter rollout begins: 60,000 ESB customers receive letters inviting them to take part in the first phase of the national roll-out of smart meters. The meters will help customers cut costs and improve electricity planning and management for suppliers.
27 August 08: Gormley launches consultation paper on noise pollution: In opposition the Green Party campaigned to introduce a noise bill to deal with anti-social noise such as car alarms or loud music. The consultation paper will allow the Department of Environment to bring forward noise legislation.
21 August 08: New strategy on homelessness launched: ‘The way home’ aims to minimise homelessness and where it does arise ensure nobody will remain longer than six months in emergency accommodation
20 August 08: Dual flush toilets become mandatory: From November 1 2008 only dual flush toilets are permitted to be installed in both new and existing buildings saving hundreds of millions of litres of drinking water a year.
12 Aug 08: Additional organic milk quota announced. Trevor launches scheme to allow 750,000 extra litres of organic milk onto the Irish market
8 Aug 08: New wastewater treatment plant for Fingal. The new facility announced by John will cover the areas of Rush, Lusk, Portrane and Donabate and ensure planning is not put on hold because of an over-capacity on system.
4 Aug 08: €5m home energy saving grant scheme. Eamon Ryan announces that Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) is now inviting applications for the ‘Cluster Housing’ phase of the Government’s Home Energy Saving Pilot Scheme.
31 July 08: Results of Digital Terrestrial Television trial announced. As a result of the trial, Ireland will follow countries like France, Sweden, Norway and Estonia in adopting the latest digital television technology
25 July 08: New housing bill published. John announces draft legislation containing important measures on social and affordable housing, and anti-social behaviour
24 July 08: Details of new battery recycling scheme announced. From 29 September final users of waste batteries will be entitled to leave them back free of charge to retail outlets selling equivalent batteries, or other authorised collection points
23 July 08: Public consultation on election posters launched. John seeks submissions on poster usage during election and referendum campaigns
18 July 08: New measures to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of local planning. The new bill will ensure greater coherence between the National Spatial Strategy, Regional Planning Guidelines, development plans and local area plans.
22 July 08: Eamon launches low carbon housing scheme. SEI will provide grants of up to 40 per cent of eligible expenditure to encourage large developments to improve their energy performance.
7 July 08: Study on electricity grid connection: Eamon announces that funding has been secured for a feasibility study on the development of an offshore wind power grid to connect Northern Ireland, Ireland and Western Scotland.
6 July 08: €1.25m announced to aid local authorities in tackling graffiti and litter.
30 June 08: Funding for 14 archaeological projects. The funding will be used to give a better understanding of Ireland's archaeological heritage
24 June 08: Civil Partnership Bill announced. Published heads of the bill significant step forward for same sex couples
17 June 08: Review of local election boundaries announced. Changes will be made to take account of population changes
28 May 08: New measures to enhance Dublin Bay. John extended wildlife protection areas and established a special taskforce to advise on the future of Dublin Bay. The taskforce will examine climate change, flooding, amenity areas, and the future of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire ports.
26 May 08: €20m for university energy research. Eamon allocated funding to UCD, QUB, UCC, UU, NUIG and UL that will create an additional 208 students and researchers in sustainable energy.
14 May 08: Broadcasting Bill contains junk food ad rules. Eamon published a new bill that will establish a single broadcasting regulator, introduce a ‘right of reply’ mechanism, and establish codes and rules relating to food advertising aimed at children.
6 May 08: Trevor secured €10m contribution to the world food programme.
5 May 08: Recommendations on Waterford Viking site accepted. John endorsed the final report on the future preservation of the Viking Age national monument at Woodstown, in Waterford.
30 Apr 08: New action plan to increase organic production. Trevor launched a plan aimed at achieving the Programme for Government target of 5% of land area in organic production by 2012.
29 Apr 08: €3.5m for protection of local heritage. John announced grant offers to 138 conservation projects nationwide.
28 Apr 08: Tighter controls on waste exported for recycling. John announced new regulations to tighten controls on the export of waste for recycling and recovery.
24 Apr 08: New pilot scheme to encourage domestic energy saving. Eamon announced a new home energy saving scheme that will encourage and incentivise homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
22 Apr 08: Green paper on local government reform launched. John published new draft plans to strengthen local democratic leadership and introduce a new elected mayor for Dublin.
16 Apr 08: New electricity microgeneration programme announced. Eamon announced a pilot grant scheme that will allow users to generate electricity for their own use.
14 Apr: Dublin Transportation Authority Bill published. The greens inputted into the legislation that will lead to the of the establishment of the Dublin Transport Authority.
8 Apr 08: Consultants appointed to undertake transmission network study. Eamon appointed international consultants to undertake the independent study on the comparative merits of overhead electricity transmission lines versus underground cables.
7 Apr 08: Wicklow County Council directed to progress Sugarloaf protection. John directed the Council to progress Special Amenity Area Orders for the Sugarloaf area in North Wicklow.
20 Mar 08: Substantial funding increases for conservation and protection of built heritage. John announced a funding package amounting to almost €25m to support built heritage projects in 2008
25 Mar 08: New bathing water regulations introduced. John announced new regulations which focus on the greater protection of bather’s health, a proactive approach to the management of bathing water quality and greater public involvement.
19 Mar 08: Boyle welcomes pension fund withdrawal from bomb firms. Dan welcomed the withdrawal of National Pension Reserve Fund investments in companies known to have an involvement in the making of cluster bombs – a long-held Green demand.
13 Mar 08: New measures for sustainable electricity sector. Eamon announced new plans to secure a green, secure and competitive electricity sector, including legislation to fast-track the delivery of the East-West inter-connector by 2012.
12 Mar 08: Independent study into transmission lines launched. Eamon announced a new a study into the merits of overhead electricity transmission lines versus underground cables that will deal with issues including: reliability, maintenance, environmental impact and possible health issues.
5 Mar 08: Details of green motor tax system launched. John outlined full details of the new CO2-based motor tax system, which will encourage drivers to choose lower-emitting forms of transport.
5 Mar 08: New oil and gas exploration licences to benefit Irish tax take. Eamon awarded licences for hydrocarbon exploration covering a 4,963 sq km area off Ireland's west coast which will, if profitable, have a significantly increased tax takes as a result of revised licensing terms.
3 Mar 08: Enforcement powers of local building authorities strengthened. John kick-started the new Building Control Act, which increases penalties for breaches of the national building regulations, expands prosecution options for authorities and better facilitates the recoupment of costs.
29 Feb 08: Alteration of Limerick City boundary ordered. John made an order extending the boundary of Limerick City which aim to improve local infrastructure and the economy.
27 Feb 08: New planning guidance on management of residential estates. John issued new policy guidance for local authorities that will help create sustainable communities and consign to the past the legacy of unfinished estates.
25 Feb 08: Overhaul of Dublin and Galway water systems. John approved tendering for the Dublin Region water-mains rehabilitation project and announced a €16.5m parcel of water service scheme approvals for Galway City and County.
14 Feb 08: Exports Bill passage through the Dáil welcomed. Mary worked on new trade legislation that will reduce Ireland’s role in the arms industry.
14 Feb 08: Tax Commission established. Dan welcomed the establishment of a Commission on Taxation, which will ensure that future taxes are fair and equitable and prepare the way for the introduction of a carbon levy.
10 Feb 08: New planning guidelines focused on creating sustainable communities. John published new draft sustainable planning guidelines aimed at improving design standards and co-ordinating the delivery of essential infrastructure and services.
8 Feb 08: Supports open way for €4bn investment in offshore wind. Eamon announced a major increase in financial supports for offshore wind-power, increasing subsidies from €57 to €140 per megawatt hour. The move will open the way for major additional investment in offshore wind.
31 Jan 08: Finance Bill includes green tax incentives for business. The Government included new schemes aimed at supporting business investment in energy-saving equipment in its Finance Bill. Companies adopting environmentally friendly practises are also permitted to consider carbon credits as financial assets.
30 Jan 08: Changes proposed to Limerick electoral boundaries. The Limerick City Boundary Committee, set up by John, has proposed to alter the electoral boundaries of Limerick City and County Councils to strengthen the region and enable Limerick to grow sustainably.
24 Jan 08: New support scheme for bioenergy. Farmers will be at the forefront of the fight against climate change as Eamon announces new grants for businesses, schools and hospitals who install biomass-fuelled and anaerobic digestion Combined Heat and Power Units.
21 Jan 08: Greens to the rescue of the otter and slug. John announced new 'species action' conservation plans for the otter and the Kerry slug, which are under threat.
15 Jan 08: €26m for wave power research. Eamon launched a major new ocean energy initiative that will see new facilities in Cork and Mayo, grants, and a new feed-in-tariff for wave energy
10 Jan 08: Brussels supports minimum bulb standards. John visited the Commission and discovered that they were willing to follow Ireland's lead on energy efficient lighting and fast-track EU-wide regulations
10 Jan 08: Study shows Ireland can surpass renewable targets. Eamon's department and its Northern counterpart published a joint study on renewable energy and the all-island electricity grid, which showed that Ireland could become a world leader in renewable energy.
9 Jan 08: €21m for sustainable agriculture and forestry research. Trevor announced new funding for research covering agri-energy and agri-environment issues.
9 Jan 08: New law to deal with junk-food advertising to kids. Eamon said that the Government's new Broadcasting Bill will adopt EU-wide broadcasting rules covering 'junk-food' marketing in children's programmes and accessibility for visually and hearing impaired individuals.
3 Jan 08: New rules include free return of used batteries. John published draft battery recyling regulations including measures allowing consumers to return waste batteries either to the place of purchase or other collection points free of charge.
2007
31 Dec 07: €6m for local recycling. John announced €6m in extra funding to help offset the costs of running bring banks and other community recycling facilities.
19 Dec 07: Ward Union gets hunt license – but with major restrictions. John issued a restricted licence stipulating that stag must be recaptured before hounds are released
17 Dec: New agricultural grants announced. Trevor welcomed Capital Investment Scheme grant aid for the marketing and processing of certain agricultural products, including horticulture.
11 Dec 07: €600,000 for environmental projects. John announced grants of €600,000 for 350 projects to encourage community participation in local decision-making. The projects focus on areas including: waste, biodiversity, climate change, and air and water quality.
6 Dec 07: Carbon budget delivers light bulb ban and motor tax reform. John delivered a 'carbon budget,' Highpoints included: a ban on incandescent light bulbs from 2009; green reform of motor tax; new annual reports on progress towards meeting emission reduction targets; and evidence that climate change considerations are now integrated into the Government's budgetary policy and decision-making processes.
5 Dec 07: Ministers welcome greenest budget yet. The Party welcomed many aspects of this year's budget, which delivered substantial results under difficult financial circumstances. There were major funding increases in budgets for energy research and infrastructure, and environmental and heritage protection.
29 Nov 07: New climate change campaign launched. John launched a major new stake-holder-focused climate change awareness campaign, calling on all sectors of Irish society to respond to the challenge of global warming.
28 Nov 07: Greens address Seanad reform. John spoke to the Seanad on the subject of reforming the house, stating that he intended to meet the Programme for Government commitments - and reform of the Seanad Higher Education Constituency especially - within the lifetime of the Government.
26 Nov 07: Free access to geotechnical database. Eamon said that making access to the National Geotechnical Borehole Database free would be welcomed by engineers and planners and help improve the siting of important development and infrastructural projects in key urban locations including Greater Dublin.
19 Nov 07: Repairs ordered for Mayo nature site damaged by Corrib gas works. John issued directions to Shell requiring it to restore a special area of conservation to its original condition following unauthorised works at Glengad Co. Mayo.
19 Nov 07: Action plan for endangered red squirrel. John announced that a draft species action plan for the red squirrel has been prepared by the National Parks and Wildlife Service outlining conservation actions needed to secure the future of the red squirrel.
7 Nov 07: Extra protection for rare Hen Harriers. John announced proposals to designate Special Protection Areas for the protection of Hen Harriers, a medium-sized bird of prey, whose habitat is found on low hills, particularly in Kerry, Limerick, Cork, Clare and Galway.
5 Nov 07: New smart meters for every home. Eamon announced that a nation-wide programme to install 'smart' electricity meters in every home – allowing customers to manage electricity usage more efficiently and micro-generators to sell power back to the grid – would begin next year.
5 Nov 07: €4m extra for recycling. John allocated an extra €4 million in funding to local authorities across the country to offset costs associated with bring banks and other recycling facilities.
1 Nov: Single electricity market launched. Eamon met his Northern counterpart Nigel Dodds to mark the start of the single electricity market, which will help ensure the security, reliability and competitiveness of electricity supplies throughout the island.
31 Oct 07: Govt pledges new laws on same sex unions. The Greens secured an early Government commitment to publish legislation to give legal recognition to same sex unions.
30 Oct 07: Protection sought for unique Irish coral. John called on the EU to back his calls for a selective fishing ban off the west coast in order to protect unique coral reefs. The designated areas will be the first deep sea marine sites in Europe to be protected under the Habitats Directive.
25 Oct 07: 'Green' planning exemptions announced. John launched a consultation process on proposed exemptions from the planning process for micro-renewable technologies – including wind turbines, combined heat and power plants, solar panels and biomass boiler units – for industrial, commercial and public buildings and agricultural structures.
24 Oct 07: Archaeological review gets underway. John chaired the first review of archaeological policy and practice, which will examine whether national monuments legislation needs to be strengthened and how archaeological practices should be improved in Ireland.
22 Oct 07: EU closes nitrates case. Following John's introduction of increased penalties, the European Commission closed infringement proceedings against Ireland over its implementation of the Nitrates Directive. The directive is intended to protect waters from pollution from agricultural sources.
17 Oct 07: Greens make progressive contributions to pensions paper. Dan welcomed the publication of the green paper on pensions and said the Party’s contributions to the paper – especially the tapered SSIA scheme biased towards lower earners – were progressive.
12 Oct 07: New water pollution regulations. John signed new regulations which provide for the licensing and policing of sewage treatment facilities following an EPA report which said that our ground waters are being polluted unnecessarily.
3 Oc 07: Stronger controls for organic food and farming. Trevor announced new controls to deter 'rogue traders' from passing off conventional food as organic.
3 Oct 07: Energy efficiency action plan unveiled. Eamon launched the first ever national energy efficiency action plan which will help conserve energy across Government, business and home sectors and work towards reaching energy efficiency savings of 20 per cent by 2020.
3 Oct 07: Preservation order placed on national monument at Rath Lugh. John placed a temporary preservation order on a national monument at Rath Lugh in Lismullin, to ensure that the monument is not undermined or endangered in any way during the construction of the M3 motorway.
1 Oct 07: On-the-spot litter fines increased. John increased the on-the-spot litter fine from €125 to €150 to send out the clear message that litter pollution can simply not be tolerated.
21 Sep 07: Energy efficient building regulations for new homes. John published draft- regulations dealing with energy efficiency for homes, including a mandatory minimum level of renewable energy for the first time and provision for 40% improvement in energy efficiency and a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions.
20 Sep 07: Woodland SAC extended to include Cascade Wood. John proposed extending the existing designation of a woodland special area of conservation around Ballyvourney in Cork to include Cascade Wood, north of the village.
20 Sep 07: Boundary committee to examine Limerick borders. John announced he is to establish a boundary committee to examine an extension of Limerick City Council’s boundary to facilitate intensive development and regeneration.
19 Sep 07: €20m funding for marine researchers. Eamon announced the awarding of nearly €20m worth of grants to 141 researchers and students for new marine research projects.
17 Sep 07: New apartments to be bigger and better. John Gormley published guidelines for planning authorities aimed at promoting successful apartment living with better internal space standards and storage space.
17 Sep 07: €5.8bn investment in water services. John published a €5.8bn spending plan on new water supply and waste water infrastructure and announce a ranger of other measures including a special package to target supplies at risk from cryptosporidium and e.coli; measures to improve water conservation; enforcement powers to prosecute those who cause water pollution; and plans for enhanced protection of rivers, lakes and estuaries.
3 Sep 07: New phase for Greener Homes Scheme. Eamon announced a new phase for the Greener Homes scheme, which had fulfilled its initial objectives and surpassed its targets ahead of schedule. The new phase will include grants for lower-income housing, school and community schemes and the roll-out of other innovative heating technologies.
22 Aug 07: Increased penalties under Nitrates Directive. John increased the maximum penalties for offences under the Nitrates Regulations, which are aimed at protecting waters against pollution from farming
16 Aug 07: John releases White Tailed Eagles into the Wild in Kerry. The release was part of the programme to reintroduce the native bird of prey to Ireland.
1 Aug 07: Increased taxes on oil and gas finds. Eamon introduced new licensing terms which increase the State’s tax take on oil and gas finds off its shores.
30 Jul 07: New protection of Irish shellfish waters. Eamon announced that some waters will be designated as Shellfish Growing Waters, with minimum standards of water quality.
23 Ju 07: Major public awareness campaign on climate change announced. John invited tenders for the design and delivery of a major new climate change communications and public awareness campaign.
22 Jul: Monaghan County Council directed to vary its Development Plan. John directed Monaghan County Council to vary its Development Plan following the Council’s intention to zone land for a potential additional 102,000 people – an increase of 182% on the county’s current population over six years.
20 Jul 07: Social Inclusion Unit programme extended. John extended of the social inclusion unit programme to nine more local authorities.
19 Jul 07: Red Kites fly again in Wicklow after 200 years. John oversaw the introduction 30 young Red Kites to the wild in Co Wicklow to commence a programme to restore the native bird of prey to Ireland.
12 Jul 07: Submissions invited for local government green paper. John announced details of local government reform and requested for submissions from the public to feed into a Green Paper.
10 Jul 07: John signed new regulations to prevent illegal shipments of waste abroad.
9 Jul 07: Sargent becomes third Green minister with hybrid car. All three Green ministers adopt low-emissions Prius hybids.
27 Jun 07: Special committee on Lismullin established. John established a special committee to advise on ensuring that the archaeological excavation of the national monument at Lismullin was carried out to the highest and most transparent standard.
21 Jun 07: More stringent standards for building energy grants. Eamon increased the energy efficiency requirements of new homes eligible to claim grant aid under the ‘house of tomorrow’ scheme.