Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson has welcomed confirmation from the Environment Minister a public consultation on a Clean Air Strategy would be launched shortly.

East Antrim MLA Mr Dickson was speaking after receiving a reply from Edwin Poots on his plans for such a strategy for Northern Ireland. The Minister stated his Department has been working on developing a draft Clean Air Strategy discussion document, alongside the Department for Infrastructure. The document will be put out for public consultation shortly, inviting ‘views on a range of matters relating to air quality’.

“This is an important move for reducing air pollution across Northern Ireland,” said Mr Dickson.

“Alongside my Alliance colleagues, we have been continually asking the Minister around his plans for a Clean Air Strategy, as outlined in the New Decade, New Approach document. It is therefore welcome he has now committed to publicly consult shortly.

“I would encourage people to participate once it is launched – this is an opportunity to tackle the concerning levels of air pollution we see in Northern Ireland, and deliver lasting change for everyone in our society.”