Wednesday 31 March 2021
Clare Bailey MLA has welcomed the long-awaited DoE public consultation on reducing carbon emissions from homes, businesses, transport and power sectors, but cautioned that legally binding targets are essential to make the just transition to a low carbon future.
The Economy Department's consultation is on the Energy Strategy, which aims to set future energy policy and runs until 30 June.
Clare Bailey MLA said: "It's absolutely essential the Economy Department focus on rapid decarbonisation as part of future energy policy.
"Climate breakdown is the defining issue of our time and it's imperative that future energy policy is driven by a just transition to a low carbon economy.
"The just transition involves the development of green technology and infrastructure, creating new opportunities for people to upskill into sustainable, well paid jobs. We must ensure that no one is left behind as we make the shift to a low carbon future."
Clare Bailey MLA concluded:
"The Climate Bill for Northern Ireland creates a legally binding framework for decarbonisation with a target for net zero emissions by 2045. This consultation is welcome but relates to a strategy with non-binding targets.
“The Executive has failed to live up to climate commitments previously. That's why cross-party support for the Climate Bill is one of its most important aspects."
ENDS
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