Northern Ireland

Stormont committee calls for evidence and views on Climate Change Bill

Cattle are one of the main sources of greenhouse gases. Picture by Andrew Milligan/PA Wire
Cattle are one of the main sources of greenhouse gases. Picture by Andrew Milligan/PA Wire Cattle are one of the main sources of greenhouse gases. Picture by Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

THE STORMONT scrutiny committee with oversight of environmental matters has called individuals and organisations to voice their views on the new Climate Change Bill.

The proposed legislation is being brought forward as a private members bill by Green MLA Clare Bailey.

It was recently passed to the assembly's Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (AERA) Committee, which plans to examine the bill in depth, taking evidence from experts and stakeholders before outlining its views to the assembly ahead of further consideration.

The bill so far has the support of all main parties apart from the DUP. Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots plans to bring forward his own legislation, with less ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Launching the call for evidence and views, committee chair Declan McAleer said the bill sets out a framework for climate change adaptation and mitigation that would influence policy across all sectors of society.

Provisions in the proposed legislation include a target for reducing greenhouse gases to net zero by 2045, alongside the appointment of a climate change commissioner and a requirement that the Northern Ireland Executive develop climate action plans every five years, to help reach the target.

“The target of net zero greenhouse gases by 2045 will be one of the most debated aspects of this bill and I know that farmers and many of those in the agricultural sector are concerned that this will impact negatively on their livelihoods," Mr McAleer said.

“It is for this reason that we are looking for a wide and diverse range of views to help inform our considerations on this important bill. We want to ensure that the final bill takes account of all viewpoints and is balanced, fair and fit for purpose."

Those wishing to provide input have until July 15 and can find details on the assembly website.