Northern Ireland's climate policy faces division after a DUP motion sought full withdrawal from the draft Climate Action Plan 2023-2027. Ulster Unionist agriculture spokesperson Robbie Butler MLA called for revising the targets instead of abandoning them. He attributed delivery challenges to the absence of ministerial leadership during five years Stormont was collapsed over the last decade.

Butler noted recent shortfalls in energy targets, energy security issues, delays in major roads projects, and obstacles to agri-food security as factors making 2030 and 2050 goals unrealistic. He stressed balancing environmental and economic needs, with agriculture bearing a heavy load. Over 60% of local farm produce exports feed about 10 million people in the UK, he said, positioning farmers as key to a circular economy.

Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir rejected rolling back commitments set by the 2022 Climate Change Act, passed unanimously at final stage. He described the draft plan as realistic and phased, based on evidence and affordability. Muir highlighted benefits like green jobs, local clean energy, warmer homes, and economic returns of two to four times investment.

Muir cited the CBI forecast of £57 billion in UK green growth by 2030 and public support, with 74% wanting more action on climate change. He pointed to local impacts including the wettest January in 149 years at 170% of average rainfall, heavy rain in Killowen, Co Down, Storm Eowyn cutting power to over 240,000 homes and businesses, and blue-green algae at Lough Neagh.

The minister linked wet weather to farming difficulties in crop harvesting and slurry storage, plus warmer conditions aiding diseases like Bluetongue. He has published a third Climate Adaptation Programme, set three carbon budgets with interim targets, and secured £12 million for an agriculture Just Transition Fund.

Muir proposed a Just Transition Commission with cross-sector input. On Monday, the Ulster Unionists plan a motion on anaerobic digestion for food and energy security.