12 November 2025 European Movement Ireland today launched a new policy briefing examining the European Union’s Just Transition Fund (JTF), introduced under the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill. The JTF aims to support regions most affected by the transition to climate neutrality, particularly in areas impacted by the end of peat production such as Laois, Westmeath, Offaly, Longford, Roscommon, Ballinasloe, in Galway, Carrick-on-Suir and Thurles in Tipperary, and Athy and Clane in Kildare.
This briefing assesses the implementation of the JTF since its rollout in 2023, highlighting three key challenges identified by stakeholders: economic viability, funding allocation, and rural identity.
Commenting on the report, Dr. Gillian Kennedy, Policy Manager at European Movement Ireland, said: “Our findings demonstrate that while the EU Just Transition Fund represents an essential step towards a more sustainable future, there have been some challenges in the fund’s rollout and there are barriers preventing communities from fully benefiting from it. Simplifying the application process and ensuring fairer access to funding are critical to making the transition truly just and more equitable.”
The report notes widespread concern over the complexity of the funding system, with both farmers and community groups citing difficulties in accessing support. Furthermore, European Movement Ireland’s briefing highlights similar recommendations to the recent Introductory Report of the Just Transition Commission of Ireland 2025, which outlines the need for integrating just transition messaging across all climate communication efforts and offer meaningful ways to hear and understand peoples lived experiences.
Dr. Kennedy added: “For many rural communities, peat production and traditional farming are more than economic activities, they are part of local identity. A successful transition must recognise this and provide meaningful opportunities that respect and build on these traditions, in particular when offering support in new employment areas, training and upskilling.”
Following the closure of Bord na Móna operations in 2018, the report reflects on the emotional toll of the job losses on the mental health of community members and their wellbeing. Though these closures predate the JTF, they continue to shape community perceptions of the just transition process. Many affected areas reported feelings of abandonment due to limited consultation and unclear communication, further emphasising the need for a more transparent, community-led approach to climate transition policies.
Dr. Kennedy concluded; “Examining the roll-out of the EU Just Transition Programme is vital for building trust and optimism in the Midlands and shaping future just transition processes. European Movement Ireland recommends simplifying the funding application process, improving access to expert grant support for local groups and small and medium businesses, and not only increasing investment in upskilling and new employment opportunities but also infrastructure in rural areas.”
Read The Just Transition Fund and its implementation in Ireland