The government's decision not to ban gas exploration is a missed opportunity, according to an environmental group.
Friends of the Earth says the move would have made Ireland a world leader in the area.
It comes following yesterday's announcement by the Taoiseach that oil exploration will be banned.
Leo Varadkar made the announcement at the UN Climate Summit in New York where world leaders have been outlining how they plan to battle climate change.
The summit heard from climate activist Greta Thunberg who made an emotional speech where she accused leaders of failing younger generations:
"The eyes of all future generations are upon you. And if you choose to fail us, I say we will never forgive you."
-- @GretaThunberg at UN #ClimateAction Summit. https://t.co/g4uXzT9aRM pic.twitter.com/2nBzFxsnxP— United Nations (@UN) September 23, 2019
