Green collar jobs to ease recession
Last updated 19:28, Thursday, 13 November 2008
WEST Cumbria’s two Green Party candidates at next year’s European elections have spoken out in support of a pledge to create thousands of jobs in new green industries.
The party this week launched its election campaign plan based on the belief that thousands of so-called “green collar” jobs could be created in recycling and repairing goods, in local food production, and through an effective programme of insulation and energy efficiency.
Geoff Smith and Jill Perry have been selected as Green Party candidates for the North West in the European Parliament. The pair will be the only Cumbrians of any party to contest the European elections.
Ms Perry, of Bulgill, near Maryport, said: “Europe faces not just an economic crisis, but an accelerating climate crisis too. We need secure jobs and we need new green industries.”
Mr Smith, of Crosby, near Maryport, said: “We can make Britain the green jobs capital of Europe with these plans, making the transition away from fossil fuels, creating thriving new industries and helping pull ourselves out of economic crisis at the same time.
“But getting a Green New Deal right in Europe will depend on addressing the green skills gap."
The strategy includes a promise of free insulation for everyone, using energy company profits to cut bills and create jobs.
It also calls for an end to subsidies for fossil and nuclear fuel, with money diverted to build world-class green energy industries.
