A United Nations expert has urged Ireland to integrate human rights considerations into its environmental policies. In a statement released on October 27, 2023, at the conclusion of her visit, UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to a Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment, Astrid Peuntes Riaño, emphasized the importance of addressing environmental rights in governmental decision-making.
Peuntes Riaño acknowledged that while Ireland has made notable advancements in environmental protection, these achievements may be jeopardized by regressive proposals. She stated, “Advances in environmental protections are evident, though these may be lost due to regressive proposals and prioritizing investments without considering environmental and climate impacts, even transboundary.”
Despite these advancements, Ireland has announced that it will not meet its legally binding climate target of a 50 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Instead, Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Climate and Minister for Transport, indicated that the country is projected to achieve a maximum reduction of only 22 percent.
Environmental Concerns Over Policy Decisions
Recent government decisions, such as the EU nitrates derogation and the lifting of the passenger cap at Dublin Airport, have raised significant environmental concerns. Critics argue that these moves lack proper environmental assessments and are likely to lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions, negatively impacting the health of future generations.
O’Brien has defended these decisions, arguing that economic growth must take precedence. However, Peuntes Riaño warned that the pursuit of economic revenue must not compromise environmental protection and human rights. She highlighted the increasing threats posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, and toxic pollution, which are already harming communities.
The UN expert called for a more robust consideration of both national and international laws to address these issues effectively. At the national level, the Supreme Court of Ireland’s ruling in the case of Friends of the Irish Environment v. Government of Ireland confirmed that the right to a healthy environment is not currently constitutionally protected. Instead, environmental measures are enforced through a combination of constitutional provisions, statutory regulations, and EU law.
Future Steps and International Commitments
On the international stage, Ireland has ratified most relevant environmental treaties. However, the explicit recognition of the right to a healthy environment is still pending approval from both houses of Ireland’s parliament. Despite this, the nation remains active in promoting international recognition of environmental rights.
Peuntes Riaño noted that establishing consistent policies and legislation that recognize the right to a healthy environment could help fill existing gaps in national law. She stated, “Ireland stands at an important moment to reinforce environmental protection while strengthening human rights and democracy.”
With Ireland set to assume the presidency of the Council of the EU later this year, Peuntes Riaño urged the country to leverage its position to influence European leadership in protecting both people and the environment. A comprehensive report detailing these findings and recommendations is expected to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2027.
