Alliance Environment spokesperson, Anna Lo MLA, has called on the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to improve flood defences and has highlighted the impact of climate change on flooding. She was speaking ahead of an Alliance Motion she will be proposing in the Assembly on Monday.

Anna Lo MLA said: "The recent incidents of serious flooding have been of great concern to all, and I would like to record my gratitude to all those who worked to minimise the risk of flooding.

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"The Alliance Party believes the seriousness of future flooding is likely to increase as a direct result of climate change. Some politicians want to ignore and deny climate change. The fact is, the disruption to our climate is happening. The records tell us this - with wetter winters over the last 50 years. The change in our climate is not up for debate. A changing climate is a serious issue that has dramatic social, economic and environmental implications for our society. To deny this, is in my view, both irresponsible and wrong.

"As every piece of evidence suggests that we will face more extreme weather, we really need to ensure our approach is as strategic and coherent as possible. It is for this reason that a Northern Ireland Climate Change Bill is essential if we are to reduce our carbon footprint.

"However, flooding is a natural phenomenon that cannot be entirely eliminated, so we need to start thinking about what more can be done to minimise the consequences."

(CD)