This new ministry is titled the Ministry of Climate Change & Environment.

“That stands separately from the Premier’s Office,” said Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley while speaking at a press conference Tuesday afternoon.

Dr Wheatley said he will serve as the minister of that portfolio.

The Premier noted that the move demonstrates the importance his government has assigned to the environment and all the critical issues involved in its preservation and sustainable use. He further said the move also demonstrates the importance his government has placed on “the existential threat of climate change”.

“I’m looking forward to the ministry’s establishment of a Department of Climate change and environment to respond to these needs,” Dr Wheatley stated.

The addition of this new ministry brings the total number of government ministries, including the Premier’s Office, to seven.