Andrew Muir

Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has published responses to two separate policy consultations which will inform the drafting of the forthcoming Fisheries and Water Environment Bill.

The first stage of the consultation looked at proposals for managing fisheries and aquaculture in a sustainable way, improving enforcement, and protecting the environment by considering how all parts of nature work together.

The second stage focused on the rules and policies needed to protect water quality, ecosystems, and the wider environment.

The bill aims to create a legal framework for managing fisheries and aquaculture that takes account of the whole environment, not just individual species, so that all the habitats’ fish depend on throughout their life cycle are managed in a joined‑up and responsible way.

It also provides the framework for increased fines for pollution offences in order to better protect the water environment, as well as the introduction of fixed penalty notices.

Agriculture, environment and rural affairs minister Andrew Muir said: “I would like to thank all who took the time to respond to these consultations. It is clear that people broadly support updating our fisheries and aquaculture policies, so they fully reflect a ‘whole‑environment’ approach and the principles of sustainable development.

“I also acknowledge the strong public support for improving water quality. I agree with the calls for a balanced approach – one that focuses on preventing problems in the first place, enforcing the rules when needed, and restoring the environment where it has been damaged.

“This will enable the department to deliver sustainable river basin management planning and help rebuild public trust in the system. As part of this, the maximum fine for water pollution offences tried at magistrates’ court would be increased to £50,000 for each offending incident and the ability to issue fixed penalty notices would be introduced.”

DAERA has reviewed all responses to the consultations and alongside feedback received during stakeholder engagement sessions, it has collated an analysis and summary document which captures a comprehensive overview of all replies.

The Office of Legislative Counsel is progressing drafting of the bill, which is expected to be introduced in the Assembly before the summer recess.