Foster recognises the potential for 'green jobs'

Northern Ireland has the opportunity to create ‘green jobs’ by maximising its sustainable energy activity.

That was the message from the Energy Minister, Arlene Foster when she chaired the first meeting of the Interdepartmental Working Group, (IDWG) on sustainable energy, last week.

The aim of the IDWG is to ensure a co-ordinated approach across Government to the promotion of sustainable energy, including energy efficiency and renewable energy. The group was made up of senior representatives from all Northern Ireland government departments, as well as Invest NI. All have policies and practices which could aid the promotion of sustainable energy.

In her welcoming remarks to the group, the Minister said: “Sustainable energy has never been more important than it is today in maximising economic opportunities and ensuring security of our energy supply. ‘Green jobs’ can be created through increased sustainable energy activity in areas such as energy efficiency and renewable technology. Anyone affected by recent power cuts will have had a timely reminder of how fundamental energy is to all we do: for lighting, heating and powering our productivity.”

Arlene Foster added: “The attendance of departmental representatives at this meeting shows the commitment by all the Executive Ministers to this increasingly important area of work.”

The Minister went on to outline the need for a more concerted Northern Ireland effort to maximise our sustainable energy activity to the benefit of consumers and the overall sustainability of the economy. Arlene Foster said: “A key challenge for the group will be to develop actions and structures that will effectively deliver an improved Northern Ireland solution to sustainable energy policy and delivery.

“The establishment of this group provides a clear message to stakeholders that the Executive recognises the challenges presented by sustainable energy issues, and that this area presents real opportunities, particularly for ‘green job’ creation in Northern Ireland.”

The IDWG will develop a report of recommendations in respect of co-ordinated sustainable energy activity in Northern Ireland by autumn this year, including appropriate structure(s) to continue joined up delivery.

Notes to Editors:

1. The Interdepartmental Working Group on Sustainable Energy held its first meeting on 28 January 2009. The group will facilitate support from other Ministerial colleagues whose departments have legislative responsibility for energy efficiency and renewable energy matters and will demonstrate a strategic, joined-up Government approach to Sustainable Energy issues in Northern Ireland.
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