Alliance Party Economy Spokesperson Categorically States his Party is Opposed to Future Fossil Fuel

East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson, has stated in no uncertain terms that the Alliance Party are resolute in their opposition to future fossil fuel exploration, including fracking. Mr Dickson has raised the issue as a report into potential future plans to grant exploration licences was leaked in recent weeks.

Mr Dickson said: “My party published our Green New Deal in April 2021. In that document, we state our firm position that there should be an immediate statutory ban on all current and future fossil fuel exploration, including fracking, leaving the energy sources of yesterday in the ground.

“With COP26 barely in the rear-view mirror, I find it incredible that we are still talking about fossil fuels as part of our future energy planning. Fracking carries serious consequences for the local environment, for local wildlife, and for local communities. Not to mention the long-term problems attached to over reliance on non-renewable sources of fuel.

“I find it very concerning that parts of the Hatch Report have been leaked, and I am even more concerned by the direction of travel the leaked document alludes to. That the Minister still hasn’t told us when the Report will be published in full is unacceptable and means that speculation will run rampant, causing stress to local constituents as Christmas approaches”.

Mr Dickson pointed to the sustainable energy policies detailed in the Alliance Green New Deal as a better way forward for Northern Ireland.

Mr Dickson said: ‘My party believes that we should be setting ambitious targets for 80% renewable electricity generation by 2030; and 95% renewable electricity generation by 2035.

“Moreover, we propose all Northern Ireland Departments be required to consider climate and the energy transition in policy development, to ensure all of Government is working together towards our zero-carbon energy future, and maximising interventions to reach this goal”.

Mr Dickson concluded by saying: “Northern Ireland has an opportunity to walk the walk on renewable energy, not just talk the talk. I’m disappointed that the Economy Minister doesn’t appear to be up for the challenge”.

To view Alliance’s Green New Deal in full, visit: https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/allianceparty/pages/3583/attachments/original/1619423927/AllianceGreenNewDeal.pdf?1619423927