The Future Is Green - Michael Fitzpatrick TD, Convenor of the Oireachtas Enterprise Committee

Yesterday’s report by the High Level Group on Green Enterprise marks a milestone in the development of Ireland’s smart economy. The report identifies 80,000 potential jobs in the green energy sector by outlining practical proposals in the areas of green procurement, renewable energy, green enterprise zones, green R&D, waste management and waste water treatment. Now is the time to turn threats into opportunities. By supporting the growth of green technology we will be able to meet our economic and environmental challenges head on. The global environmental goods and services market is rapidly expanding. It is expected to exceed 700 billion dollars by 2010. If we are flexible and innovative, there is no reason why we shouldn’t get a large slice of that pie. Today’s report complements a government strategy launched in July targeting 30,000 jobs in digital and clean technology. There is no doubt that innovation in the energy sector will be key to our return to prosperity.

Michael Fitzpatrick is TD for Kildare North. Click here to read his profile.

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