";Silent"; launch of eco report criticised

The Irish Times

HARRY McGEE, Political Correspondent

THE GOVERNMENT'S "silent" launch of its major policy on sustainability has been severely criticised by an environmental group.

The 116-page policy document on sustainable development was unveiled by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore and Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan on the steps of Government Buildings yesterday.

However, only photographers were allowed attend and reporters were not allowed entry to ask questions about the paper. The Department of Environment press office later sent out a press release containing quotes from the Taoiseach.

Environmental group Friends of the Earth criticised what it portrayed as the "failure" of the Taoiseach and Tánaiste to speak at the launch.

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