Brandon Scott
The Laudato Si’ Working Group (LSWG) held an online meeting with Minister for Environment, Climate Action, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan last month where the role of local faith groups in their efforts to combat climate change and other environmental issues with state agencies was discussed.
During the meeting the LSWG highlighted the commitment of the Irish bishops to restoring 30% of church grounds to nature by 2030 and requested access to grants for parish groups as well as the support of climate action/biodiversity officers to faith communities.
Minister Ryan acknowledged that the Church has a key role in promoting climate justice and referenced the publications of Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum in this regard. He also spoke of possibilities for Church and State for continued collaboration on climate issues.