Commenting on the Environment Minister’s publication of a White Paper to seek views on proposals for a Sustainable Development Bill, Shadow Minister for Environment Russell George AM, said:
"While this consultation and its influence on future policy is extremely important, we have long called for Labour ministers to get a grip on sustainable development.
"With greenhouse gases on the rise, mobility policy failing, health inequalities getting wider and wildlife habitats in decline, it’s more important than ever that we see urgent improvements.
"If sustainable development is an indicator of the Programme for Government’s success, then it’s currently failing.
"The role of a commissioner in overseeing a new independent sustainable development body must also be clarified. We need a strong, clear definition of this position and a thorough consultation process that promotes engagement within communities right across the country."