Photo by K Mitch Hodge
Consultation responds to Lough Neagh crisis
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched a public consultation on strengthening enforcement mechanisms against water polluters, as part of a forthcoming Fisheries and Water Environment Bill designed to protect Northern Ireland’s marine and freshwater environments.
The consultation, running until 6 November 2025, focuses on policy proposals that will feed into new legislation aimed at protecting Northern Ireland’s seas, rivers and lakes. The initiative stems directly from commitments made in the Lough Neagh Action Plan, which required DAERA to review fines and penalties for environmental crime, including pollution offences.
Minister calls for modern penalty regime
Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir said: “If we are to truly turn the tide on water quality then we need a modern regime of fines and penalties to hold polluters accountable. Whilst my Department will always work constructively through incentivisation and education, there must be consequences for all those who continue to pollute our waterways.”
Broad impact beyond marine biodiversity
The minister emphasised the broader significance of water quality protection, stating: “Good water quality is not only essential for our marine wildlife and biodiversity, it’s vital for all of us, whether it is the drinking water from our tap or the waterbodies we swim in. Lough Neagh must be a turning point, and action requires everyone to take responsibility for their water pollution, whether as an individual or a business.”
Comprehensive enforcement framework proposed
The proposed legislation aims to ensure that enforcement mechanisms are both proportionate and effective, supporting departmental priorities of protecting and restoring Northern Ireland’s water environment whilst driving improvements to water quality. The policy framework builds upon the four key pillars outlined in the Lough Neagh Action Plan: Education, Investment, Regulation and Enforcement.
According to the consultation documents, good water quality and habitats are essential not only for fish stocks but for health, hygiene and overall well-being. For businesses, the department notes that good water quality is critical for operational efficiency, product safety and regulatory compliance.
The consultation proposes a range of additional enforcement measures designed to act as deterrents whilst ensuring action can be undertaken in a fair, balanced and proportionate manner. DAERA stated that it is “important that everyone understands their role in ensuring that the water environment is protected.”
The policy proposals are designed to deter polluters and non-compliant operators, with the intention of embedding water quality firmly within the fourth cycle River Basin Management Plan. The consultation represents a comprehensive approach to water environment protection, encompassing Northern Ireland’s marine, river and lake systems.
Minister Muir concluded: “These proposals, arising from the Lough Neagh Action Plan, are intended to be a proportionate response to the clear need to do more to protect and restore our rivers, lakes and coastal waters. Responses to the consultation will shape the final legislation and I would encourage all interested parties to share their views on the proposals before the deadline on 6 November 2025.”
The consultation includes comprehensive supporting documentation, including Strategic Environmental Assessment, Impact Assessment Screening, Equality Screening, Regulatory Impact Assessment, and Rural Needs Act Northern Ireland Impact Assessment materials, all available through DAERA’s online consultation portal.