The Cabinet has agreed to start the process for the ratification of the Paris Agreement to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Climate Action Minister Denis Naughten has secured Cabinet approval to begin the ratification process.

The Government has agreed to seek the approval of the Dáil to ratify the treaty.

This will be done under Article 29 of the Constitution, which states that prior Dáil approval is required.

The Paris Agreement was agreed by over 195 countries and parties in 2015, and will enter into force on November 4th.

The European Union ratified the agreement ahead of member states, and submitted its instrument of ratification on October 5th 2016.

Member states share a commitment to cut emissions by at least 40% by 2030.

Minister Naughten said: "Climate change is the defining challenge of our time and it is during our time that the obligation exists for us as a nation to take action.

"This obligation is as much an opportunity as it is an obligation.

"Securing Cabinet approval today, which will allow me to proceed to seek Dáil Éireann approval, is a significant step and a strong signal to the people of Ireland and to the international community of our continued support for the Paris Agreement.

"The wave of global momentum behind the ratification of the Paris Agreement has been unprecedented.

"It is our children's future and of vital national interest.".

Minister Naughten is seeking full support from all members of Dáil Éireann to facilitate its passage before the next session of the 'Conference of the Parties, COP22' - which will be held next month.