NI committee examines climate change

A Northern Ireland Assembly committee today began an inquiry into climate change.

A Northern Ireland Assembly committee today began an inquiry into climate change.

Over 40 organisations and individuals will give evidence to the Environment Committee in the coming weeks.

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has maintained global warming isn't linked to human activity and stopped a Whitehall advert on climate change.

Committee chairman Patsy McGlone said: "The impacts of climate change are something that affects us all.

"We want to learn from a range of people across the spectrum, from individuals to business and industry, to ensure that as a committee we are better informed to make our recommendations to the Department."

In the first oral evidence the committee will hear from the UK committee on climate change, a group advising the government on its responsibilities and targets.

Members will also hear from the Met Office, Sustainable Development Commission and Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action.

Representatives from business, agriculture and environmental organisations will also appear.

Mr Wilson supports measures to improve energy efficiency as it will boost the economy but isn't concerned about his carbon footprint or any of the other issues raised by environmentalists in connection with climate change.