Alliance MLA John Blair has called for further funding to tackle the climate crisis.

Mr Blair made the call after the latest meeting of the DAERA committee, adding the DAERA allocation in the Draft Budget document for 2021-22 is not enough to tackle the climate crisis, adding that ahead of COP26 we need to provide more funding and support for local action on climate emergency, to assist Northern Ireland to meet the carbon targets.

The Environment spokesperson added: “There needs to be more budget allocated, and measures need to be taken to rectify this. Allocate further funding to tackle the climate emergency and avoid an even greater crisis in the future, than the one we are currently tackling.

“The climate crisis is continuing to build, which is why I’ve also asked the DAERA Minister for an update on an inter-departmental Green Recovery Strategy and associated fund, focused on creating green jobs, mitigating the impacts of climate change and enhancing biodiversity.

“I welcome the Ministers acknowledgement of the link between environment and sustainable economy, and I hope inter-departmental work plays a big part in a green recovery – especially given the IMG has also indicated its commitment to the Green Growth agenda.”