Muir Calls for Independent Agency to Safeguard Northern Ireland's Environment

Environment Minister Andrew Muir has called for an independent environmental protection agency for Northern Ireland to address failures in current governance and safeguard local ecosystems.

• Andrew Muir, the Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister, stated that Northern Ireland needs an independent agency to enhance its environmental protection efforts.
• Muir highlighted numerous failures in environmental governance, including issues surrounding Lough Neagh, emphasizing that the current system is not fit for purpose.
• The proposed independent agency would function as a non-departmental public body, aiming to improve oversight and accountability in Northern Irelands environmental management.