NORTHERN IRELAND must rebalance its economy, easing its reliance on imported fossil fuels, the Green Party says.
The party manifesto says the local economy and the local environment are inextricably linked and can only be developed in tandem. The party’s 40-page document calls for a low-carbon future “based on stability, self-sufficiency and sustainability”.
Its “Green New Deal” proposes the establishment of an independent environmental protection agency as well as a local climate change Bill which would bring legally binding cuts of 3 per cent in annual greenhouse gas emissions.
The party also wants 70 per cent of all waste to be recycled by 2020 and stands opposed to incineration projects.
The Greens back the introduction of stand-alone domestic water charges, the reform of NI Water, and an allowance of 90 litres per day per customer with charges for water wastage.
Also proposed is the issue of “low yield, low risk” bonds to finance the water and sewerage system. The manifesto states, “the question is not whether we pay for water but how”. Some 500,000 homes in need of greater levels of heat insulation would be targeted by a new programme which would save energy, tackle fuel poverty and help kick-start recovery in the construction industry.
Party leader in Northern Ireland Steven Agnew is defending the party’s single seat.
