Sinn Féin's Environment spokesperson visits Tipp
Tipperary Sinn Féin TD Martin Browne has arranged for Sinn Féin spokesperson for Climate Action and the Environment Darren O’Rourke to visit Nenagh, Roscrea and Thurles this Friday, September 8.
Teachta O’Rourke will begin his visit to North Tipperary with meetings with local organisations involved in renewable electricity generation and energy efficiency.
Speaking ahead of the visit, Teachta Martin Browne said: “The climate and cost of living crises are acute in every single part of the country. This is no less the case in Tipperary where people are dealing a higher cost of living, while at the same they face the challenges that climate change presents, and the need to take measures to tackle it.
“What we as a party, and what Teachta O’Rourke has been advocating is an approach that would empower communities to come together and improve how energy is used for the benefit all involved, thus improving everyone’s quality of life, and reducing energy costs for households, community buildings, and local businesses.
“This approach is outlined in our policy paper “Empowering Communities in Climate Action” where, through proper investment in community-led initiatives, entire communities can benefit from the sustainable energy initiatives, especially those living in or at risk of energy poverty.
“With this in mind, Teachta O’Rourke will be meeting with community-based organisations who are working for the benefit of all. These include Tipperary Energy Community Co-op, based in Nenagh, which has its roots in the community, and which has grown to address energy needs further afield.
“He will also meet with Community Power which is Ireland’s first community owned electricity supplier, which emerged from Ireland’s first community owned wind farm, Templederry Wind Farm, and now works with other localities to increase sustainability and energy efficiency.
“Teachta O’Rourke will also be talking to people from across North Tipperary when we canvass Nenagh, Roscrea and Thurles on the same day to listen to their concerns and experiences during what has been a considerably difficult time for people who are struggling daily to pay their bills, meet their commitments and care for their loved ones.”