The leader of the Green Party in Northern Ireland has pledged to use the “positive power of disruption” to bring about change.

Clare Bailey was speaking as she launched her party’s manifesto for the local government elections at the historic Ormeau Baths in Belfast.

The Green Party is fielding 26 candidates for seats across Northern Ireland’s 11 councils.

It won four seats at the last council elections in 2014.

Its manifesto includes commitments for a complete ban on single-use plastics, provision of free sanitary products in council premises and reducing hate crime.

“Our campaign has been energetic and positive so far. Green means connecting with communities and our candidates have been listening to people and exploring new ways to better bring together people and their local councils,” Ms Bailey said.

“We’ve harnessed the energy of good ideas and aren’t afraid to use the power of disruption to make much-needed change across Northern Ireland.”