Trócaire today urged the Government to commit more funding to countries struggling to cope with the effects of climate change.
Trócaire also urged the Government to legislate Ireland's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 3 per cent per year.
Bishop Kirby, chairman of Trócaire
Unveiling the organisation's annual Lenten campaign this morning, Bishop Kirby, chairman of Trócaire, said: "Climate change impacts on every one of us, but the effects are not felt equally, and people living in poverty are bearing the brunt.
"The poor have not caused global warming, but they are the first victims of it. Justice, therefore, must be at the heart of our response," he added.
According to a Trócaire survey among its partners - including those in India, Malawi, Kenya and El Salvador - 86 per cent report that harsh weather is having a negative effect on poor communities' food supplies. In addition, 90 per cent said climate changes are badly affecting people's water supply.
Trócaire's chairman also said that rich countries must pay for climate change.
"As a global problem, all countries have a common and shared responsibility to tackle climate change. Rich industrialised countries, however, bear particular responsibility for action."
"Poorer countries, with low carbon emissions must be allowed to continue their economic development and mustn't be punished for the sins of the developed world," Dr Kirby added.
