Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment

The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment is the senior minister at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment in the Government of Ireland.
The current Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment is Eamon Ryan, TD.

Overview

The Department has responsibilities in the areas of:

Communications

Communications development – promotion of the provision and development of competitive high quality and world class services in the communications, electronic and mobile commerce sectors.
Business and technology – focusing on new business and technology applications and the development of policies, initiatives and legislation as appropriate.
Regulatory affairs – the development of effective policies for the regulation of the electronic communications sector and management of the radio frequency spectrum.
Postal services – the development of an effective policy for the Irish postal sector based on open market principles.
It is seen as a successor to the old Department of Posts and Telegraphs.
Natural Resources
The Petroleum Affairs Division aims to:
* maximise the benefits to the State from exploration for and production of indigenous oil and gas resources;
* ensure that activities are conducted safely and with due regard to their impact on the environment and other land/sea users.
The Exploration and Mining Division of the Department is charged with:
* applying the Minerals Development Act to minerals exploration and development;
* encouraging the early identification and responsible development by private investors of the Nation's minerals deposits in accordance with best international practice;
* enhancing the attractiveness of Ireland for international and national minerals investment by active promotional measures.
The Geological Survey of Ireland is:
* Ireland's National Earth Science Agency, and is responsible for providing geological advice and information.
Climate Action
To develop a competitive energy supply industry
To ensure security and reliability of energy supply
To develop energy conservation and end-use efficiency
Broadcasting

The Broadcasting Division aims to:

Develop a policy and legislative framework to facilitate the provision of quality broadcasting services in Ireland
To optimise the opportunities presented by the emerging technologies for the provision of new Irish-based broadcasting services.
List of office-holders

Director of Fisheries 1919–1921

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Secretary for Fisheries 1921–1922

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Minister for Fisheries 1922–1930

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Minister for Lands and Fisheries 1930–1937

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Minister for Lands 1937–1977

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Minister for Fisheries 1977–1978

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Minister for Fisheries and Forestry 1978–1986

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Minister for Tourism, Fisheries and Forestry 1986–1987

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Minister for the Marine 1987–1997

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Minister for Marine and Natural Resources 1997–2002

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Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources 2002–2007

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Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources 2007–2016

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