Unionist and nationalists who served on the Stormont executive were today branded "second rate" for their handling of the Sellafield issue during power-sharing.
Northern Ireland Green Party co-leader Mr John Barry launched an attack on the records of former Ulster Unionist environment ministers Mr Sam Foster and Mr Dermot Nesbitt, accusing them of acting like "second rate public representatives" for British Nuclear Fuels.
He also criticised the SDLP, claiming they failed to make any impact on the nuclear issue while in office despite South Down MP Mr Eddie McGrady's strident opposition to Sellafield.
"Former ministers Sam Foster and Dermot Nesbitt adopted the posture of second rate public relations representatives for British Nuclear Fuels and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in Westminster while holding office," Mr Barry said.
"The Ulster Unionist environment ministers swallowed DEFRA and BNFL's line on Sellafield hook, line and sinker and systematically betrayed the coastal communities of Ulster who have been campaigning against Sellafield for many years.
Mr Barry launched his attack as he confirmed plans for a summit of Green representatives from all over the British Isles in Belfast on June 23rd.
It will be the first such summit of Green leaders on these islands and will involve the Republic's six Green Party TDs and two MEPs, the Scottish Greens' seven MSPs, a London MEP, a Green member of the London Assembly and Welsh Greens.
As well as discussing Sellafield, Green representatives will also focus on genetically modified crops, the stalemate in the Northern Ireland peace process, the European Union's Constitution and the development of a common Green platform across the British Isles.
Noting a recent public opinion poll registered 56 epr cent opposition to GM foods, Mr Barry said his party wanted Northern Ireland and the Republic to be declared a "GM-free zone".
"This would protect consumers, the environment and also make Irish and Northern Irish food products more marketable within Europe," he argued.
"Just as with other environmental issues, such as waste, pollution and energy, it makes sense for action on GM crops to be conducted on a North-South basis. The meeting next week between the Green Parties of these Islands is a practical example of this co-ordinated action."
PA