Politics

Former Greens leader Steven Agnew to step down as MLA for 'new career outside of politics'

Steven Agnew is to pursue a new career outside politics. Picture by Niall Carson/PA
Steven Agnew is to pursue a new career outside politics. Picture by Niall Carson/PA Steven Agnew is to pursue a new career outside politics. Picture by Niall Carson/PA

FORMER Green Party leader Steven Agnew is stepping down as an MLA to pursue a "new career outside of politics".

The North Down assembly member is due to take up a new role as head of the Northern Ireland Renewables Industry Group (NIRIG).

He has served as an MLA for eight years and was leader of the Greens in the north from 2011 to 2018.

Mr Agnew said he was "looking forward to new challenges".

"I'll leave Parliament Buildings with great memories and in the knowledge that I’ve made a positive difference," he said.

"The party will announce a new MLA for North Down in the coming weeks."

He added: "Northern Ireland is leading the way on renewable energy generation and we can do even more in the years ahead.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge of securing further green growth, jobs and investment - as well as low-cost electricity for consumers."

Greens leader Clare Bailey said: "Steven has served the people of north Down well over the past eight years.

"When Steven was our sole MLA he delivered the Children’s Services Co-operation Act - his record speaks for itself and we wish him every success in the future."

NIRIG chair Rachel Anderson said: "During his time as an MLA, Steven has been a passionate champion of renewables.

"I know he will be a strong advocate for NIRIG as we strive to achieve a low carbon, high growth economy in Northern Ireland and I look forward to working alongside him."