Lo calls for a Northern Ireland Climate Change Act

Alliance Environment spokesperson Anna Lo MLA has called on the Environment Minister to introduce a Northern Ireland Climate Change Act. Her comments come ahead of the visit of the UK Climate Change Committee to Hillsborough on Thursday where they will present a report to the Environment Minister on the appropriateness of a Northern Ireland Climate Change Act.

Anna Lo MLA said: “The UK Government has already committed itself to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% by 2050. But Northern Ireland needs its own version to show how we will play our part in tackling this problem.

“A Northern Ireland Climate Change Act would help ensure clarity on the duties and responsibilities of the different Executive Departments. I would hope that this legislation would also identify a lead Department to take the lead on climate change to ensure that targets are met.

“The previous Environment Committee held an inquiry into Climate Change, one of the recommendations of which was that legislation should be passed after challenging but achievable targets are identified. That inquiry was completed two years ago, so I would hope that the Executive makes this issue a priority in this current Assembly term.

“I hope to work with the Environment Minister in the Environment Committee to see the development of this issue.”

ENDS