Ireland provides funds to help poorest countries fight climate change

Ireland has pledged 2 million euros to help the world's poorest countries tackle the growing impact of climate change, Foreign Minister Charlie Flanagan announced Friday.

"The funding will strengthen the ability of poor communities to adapt to climate change and tackle environmental degradation, including by supporting them to engage in crucial international negotiations which culminate in Paris in December," he said.

Ireland announced this funding on World Environment Day, which falls on June 5 every year to stimulate global awareness on environmental issues.

At last year's UN climate summit, Ireland pledged to play its role as part of the EU contribution to the global effort to address climate change, Flanagan said.

"This includes the EU commitment to reduce emissions by at least 40 percent by 2030. Ireland is committed to reaching a fair and ambitious agreement in Paris in December," he said.

He also said the Irish government is also pleased to support the country's former President Mary Robinson in her role as special envoy for climate change.