Londonderry to go dark for ‘Earth Hour’

The lights will be switched off for one hour at 8.30pm on Saturday, March 28, to mark Earth Hour, after a motion proposed by the SDLP gained full party support.

Mayor of Londonderry, Brenda Stevenson encouraged businesses and households to support the campaign.

“As a council we are always conscious of finding new ways of getting the message across about energy efficiency and how we can all do our bit for the environment.

“The Earth Hour campaign provides the opportunity for everyone to show their commitment to the environment for just one hour and switch off non-essential lights and appliances to save energy. I would encourage everyone to support the campaign in whatever small way they can.”

The Council’s Energy Manager Leo Strawbridge, added: “The council has an ongoing programme of measures to increase energy efficiency and the Earth Hour switch off reinforces Council’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.”

Campaigners recommend switching off all non-essential lights from 8.30pm until 9.30pm and trying something a bit more energy efficient like having a candlelit dinner, playing a board game or simply sitting and talking for an hour.

The Guildhall clock will be among the lights which will be dimmed across the city and councillors have also asked that the event become an annual event in the city’s new civic calendar.

You can find out more about how you or your business can take part on www.earthhour.orgthey should contact their GP and they will be referred to the Trust’s Specialist TB Nurse Service.