SDLP Social Justice Spokesperson, Mark H Durkan has welcomed confirmation that a Climate Change Bill will be brought before the Assembly in this mandate.
The Foyle MLA, who has co-sponsored the Bill, said: “The climate crisis is the single greatest challenge facing communities across the world. It’s critical that we all take action.
“We owe it to our future generations to act now. Climate change is no longer a theory but an irrefutable fact. We all have a responsibility to face up to the biggest threat facing our planet and demand change.
“Facing up to the challenge of avoiding a climate breakdown demands action at a local and global level.
“That is why, during my time as Environment Minister, I proposed a radical Climate Action Bill.
“It remains a stain on the North’s record that specific legislation on the prevention of climate catastrophe through emissions reduction targets, working toward carbon neutrality or preparing industry for tomorrow’s economy, has not yet been implemented.
“More than three months ago, the Assembly passed a motion calling for a Climate Change Act, but Minister Poots has failed to act.
“He has ignored the wishes of MLAs, the citizens and overwhelmingly scientific evidence.
“Despite the prevarication from Minister Poots, it is welcome that a cross party coalition of MLAs, including myself on behalf of the SDLP, have come together to table a Climate Change Bill.
“A Climate Act for Northern Ireland will be a small but significant step forward.
“I look forward to working with the Greens, Sinn Fein, Alliance, UUP and People before Profit to ensure this becomes law.”
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