SDLP: Much more work required to grow the green economy

SDLP MLA Joe Byrne has emphasised the need to grow the green economy. He was speaking following an Assembly Debate on the importance of supporting the growth in the Sustainable Energy Sector.

Mr Byrne said:

“The SDLP throughout the North is very encouraged about the potential for growth in the green economy. We welcome the progress and work on renewable energy that the Executive has completed to date, but so much more needs to be done.

“For example, we could be doing more work to help establish a long term vision for renewable energy in this region. My SDLP colleagues and I have been fully engaged in the renewable energy agenda and made significant recommendations to both he Minister and the Executive.

“Most recommendations have been accepted, but it’s the implementation that has been lagging. For instance, there are exciting opportunities for job creation and manufacturing in both renewable energy and efficiency and for us to be at the cutting edge of technological developments-the Committee wants to see action to see this vision realised.

“We need a joined-up approach across government and an end to the delays. The SDLP has called on the Executive to lead by example by backing renewable technologies and utilising the many prospects in this sector.

This SDLP is fully committed to developing the green economy and to raise awareness to grow the sustainable energy sector. In doing so this can help reduce potential for the worse excesses of climate change, create jobs, tackle fuel poverty among older and vulnerable people, and reduce over-crowding in hospitals.