The Upper Bann representative was speaking as COP27 ended with a breakthrough agreement to provide loss and damage funding for vulnerable countries hit hard by climate disasters.

“Countries in the Global South faced with geographical exposure, heightened levels of poverty, political instability, and exploitation of their natural resources are the most at risk and least responsible for the climate emergency,” Eóin said.

“I welcome the creation of a specific fund for loss and damage. It marks an important point of progress and a significant victory for climate activists who for decades have been striving to get the issue added to the official agenda, which it was for the first time at COP27.

“Natural disasters caused by climate change cause costly damage and we must now address the impacts on communities whose lives and livelihoods have been ruined by the very worst impacts of the climate crisis.

“Alliance recently brought forward our own proposals for a Green New Deal, and policies included in the document show how we can support those countries already suffering loss and damage.”

“Northern Ireland needs to play its part in relation to global challenges and it must act now – not because it’s convenient, but because it’s our only option.”