Diocese of Connor passes motion on climate change



The Diocese of Connor also passed a motion at its synod calling on the Representative Church Body to divest from fossil fuels.

The following is an extract from an article on the Connor website about the synod.

"A Motion on Climate Change – Disinvestment by RCB prompted some debate. The motion, proposed eloquently by the Rev Canon John Budd urged the RCB to:
  • increase investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency companies
  • ensure there are no investments in coal companies (except those investing in carbon capture) and tar sand companies within the next year
  • examine the possibility of disinvestment from oil companies within three years from now
  • examine the possibility of disinvestment from natural gas companies after five years
  • call on parishes and individuals to encourage government and political parties to act responsibly on climate change.

Canon Budd said: “We will soon be taking part in Harvest Services, thanking God and making us aware of our debt to him, but also of our responsibilities. We have to think about the consequences of our actions at home and elsewhere in the world.”

He said 80 per cent of global warming was due to CO2 emissions. “Those who are least prepared to face the consequences are the poorest who are among the least contributors to pollution.

“The best answer for the world’s future is for as much as possible of existing reserves of coal, oil and natural gas to remain in the ground and to move to natural fuels,” said Canon Budd.

The motion was seconded by Diocesan Lay Secretary Ken Gibson who said: “It is our responsibility to look after what God has given us.” Arthur McCartney, St John’s, Malone, and the Rev John Bach also spoke in favour of the motion.

Leonard Jarvis from Derriaghy was a dissenting voice, arguing that God had given us coal, oil and gas to use. “We need to question the science. Yes, we need to look at resources and renewables, but we are in danger of indulging in political posturing,” he said, urging Synod members to vote against the Motion.

The Motion was passed by a majority vote."

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