Mary stands by veganism call despite backlash

FORMER president Mary Robinson is sticking to her call for people to go vegan to tackle climate change, despite fierce criticism from her local council.

The long-standing campaigner, who runs a climate justice foundation in her name, said she spoke “from the heart” when she made the remarks two years ago and stands by her call for people to consume less.

The ex-un High Commissioner for Human Rights told the audience at the One Young World summit in The Hague yesterday that her comments prompted a backlash from the council in Co Mayo.

Mrs Robinson also faced criticism from Ireland’s farming community. She said: “I said we need to eat less meat, maybe become vegetarian or even vegan. And I got a big cheer.

“The local authority in Co Mayo sent me a formal letter asking me to withdraw those words, which I have not done. And I still say, and I still say.”