A taskforce of leading energy experts and business chiefs was unveiled today to advise the Government on how to invest in the green economy.
The 10-strong group, backed by senior civil servants, will report in four months with ideas on how state agencies and departments can work together.
Tánaiste Mary Coughlan said the aim was to steer the Government in a new direction.
“I believe the green economy provides Ireland with a tremendous opportunity to create quality jobs in a sustainable and high growth sector,” she said.
The taskforce includes Eddie O’Connor, chief executive of Mainstream Renewable Power and former head of leading wind energy company Airtricity, and John FitzGerald from the Economic and Social Research Institute.
The global green economy is estimated to be worth 950 billion euro by 2010. It was worth just €2.8 billion in Ireland last year.
Minister for Communications Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan said the group will target potential investment and schemes in the private and public sector.
“The green economy will provide an immediate boost for our country in these times,” the Green TD said.
“Ireland has huge potential in the area of our natural resources and the generation of real wealth and jobs.
“This group will be tasked with mobilising our talents across the public and private sector to position Ireland as at the forefront of the new global green economy.”
PA