Dr Stephen Farry MLA said: “The Assembly has sent a clear message to the Environment Minister Sammy Wilson that there should be a public inquiry into the proposed runway extension at Belfast City Airport.
“The debate was specifically not about advocacy of any pre-ordained outcome but rather ensuring that an open and transparent process is put in place which can robustly test all the economic and environmental arguments, claims and counter-claims. I have confidence that such a public inquiry would produce an outcome that was in the best interests of the Northern Ireland economy and wider society.
“Alliance accepted the DUP amendment which preserved the core sentiment and direction of the motion in order to establish a strong and united consensus in the Assembly in giving a view to the Minister. I believe in grown-up and pragmatic politics and getting results, and was disappointed at the gamesmanship from the UUP and SDLP.”
ENDS