Sir, - Confirmation that the Government is to legislate to lift the passenger cap at Dublin Airport is a sign, once again, that when faced with sustained pressure and bullying from powerful interests, we fold like a pack of cards.
One of the main justifications for lifting the cap is that Dublin Airport is “vital” to the economy and for connectivity. What the Government is saying is that growth must be facilitated regardless of climate and health impacts, or policy. It ignores the fact that Ireland is already failing to meet its legally-binding climate targets and that aviation accounts for roughly 10 per cent of national emissions.
This decision is not economic leadership. It is dire policy failure. Lifting the cap without equivalent climate limits pushes costs onto households, taxpayers and younger generations. It signals to every other high-emitting sector that constraints are negotiable if you are loud and large enough.
Unfortunately, this pattern is not uniquely Irish. Across Europe, corporate pressure has steadily hollowed out climate and sustainability policy. The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive has been substantially weakened in the name of “competitiveness”. This is despite clear evidence that strong, enforceable rules attract long-term, responsible investment. Aviation and shipping continue to enjoy special treatment while other sectors are told to decarbonise at pace.
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Ireland’s upcoming presidency of the EU Council will be a moment of truth, particularly on the future expansion of the EU Emissions Trading System and the inclusion of international aviation. Europe was created to protect its members from exactly this kind of external coercion. That protection only works if member states are willing to stand firm.
Ireland has two choices. It can continue its pattern of capitulation to the likes of Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary – who publicly accused Micheál Martin of being a “do nothing” Taoiseach – and the trade body representing major US carriers, Airlines for America. Or it can help lead a Europe where real competitiveness depends on climate ambition, policy consistency and political courage. - Yours, etc,
SORCHA TUNNEY,
Senior Manager, Ireland,
Opportunity Green,
Dublin.
