The South Belfast MLA stated: "The position of Climate Commissioner for Northern Ireland was created in law four years ago, and the regulations enabling appointment have been in place for over a year. It is inexcusable that the office remains vacant.
"There was in fact considerable time even before the regulations to make the relevant preparations, so it is clear now that what we are looking at is a deliberate political decision not to pursue this appointment promptly.
“The DUP are once again actively trying to frustrate laws passed by the Assembly and are determined to follow the Trump playbook of climate denial, despite the Iran war and all its consequences for the cost-of-living crisis. It does a disservice to the public and makes clear the need to get off the fossil fuel rollercoaster.
"A Climate Commissioner will actually assist us in improving well-being and enhance our focus on delivering the benefits of climate action: warmer homes, cheaper energy bills, good jobs, and a healthier society and environment. The UK Climate Change Committee has been clear that every pound spent on decarbonisation delivers two to four times the benefit.
“It is incumbent on the whole Executive to deliver on our climate responsibilities. A Commissioner will hold government accountable, highlight opportunities, and bring tangible improvements for people’s lives.”
"There was in fact considerable time even before the regulations to make the relevant preparations, so it is clear now that what we are looking at is a deliberate political decision not to pursue this appointment promptly.
“The DUP are once again actively trying to frustrate laws passed by the Assembly and are determined to follow the Trump playbook of climate denial, despite the Iran war and all its consequences for the cost-of-living crisis. It does a disservice to the public and makes clear the need to get off the fossil fuel rollercoaster.
"A Climate Commissioner will actually assist us in improving well-being and enhance our focus on delivering the benefits of climate action: warmer homes, cheaper energy bills, good jobs, and a healthier society and environment. The UK Climate Change Committee has been clear that every pound spent on decarbonisation delivers two to four times the benefit.
“It is incumbent on the whole Executive to deliver on our climate responsibilities. A Commissioner will hold government accountable, highlight opportunities, and bring tangible improvements for people’s lives.”