Eddie O’Connor statement on Dublin Climate Dialogues remarks

“My remarks at the Dublin Climate Dialogues were entirely inappropriate and insensitive. I made inaccurate and harmful generalisations about the continent of Africa that do not reflect reality, and instead serve only to perpetuate stereotypes.

“I take personal responsibility for my comments and recognise the hurt I have caused in making them. I wish to sincerely apologise to everyone, my colleagues at Mainstream, and to our partners and communities with whom we work in Africa.

“I have also apologised to the organisers of the Dialogues, recognising that my remarks have detracted from the event, and from the contributions of all the other participants.

“We will need the immense talents of people around the world – particularly in Africa – to combat climate change and to make the energy transition a reality. I am sorry for my words that detract from the importance and significance of this mission.”

Dr Eddie O’Connor, Chairman of Mainstream Renewable Power