They will be the first of the world’s nations to do so
Thomas Pringle, an independent Irish politician, has introduced a bill which basically aims to cut all of the country’s funding for anything related to fossil fuels. The bill was passed in January, and if it’s approved and made law, it will turn Ireland into the first country to go down this path.
Main reason cited for the important bill is, of course, climate change; its proponent is adamant “this principle of ethical financing is a symbol to these global corporations that their continual manipulation of climate science, denial of the existence of climate change, and their controversial lobbying practices of politicians around the world is no longer tolerated.”
Deputy Pringle adds that “we cannot accept their actions while millions of poor people in underdeveloped nations bear the brunt of climate change forces as they experience famine, mass emigration, and civil unrest as a result."
According to Independent.co.uk, once the bill becomes law, Ireland’s Strategic Investment Fund will have to get rid of all its shares in the fossil fuels; they amount to €8 billion euros.