The Environment Act 2021 requires the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to publish an Environment Improvement Plan by July 2023. However, this deadline was missed due to the DUP’s boycott of the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive. Alliance Minister, Andrew Muir MLA, brought a proposed EIP before the Executive in March after being appointed to his role in February 2024, but it still waiting for approval. 

The South Antrim MLA said: “The publication of Northern Ireland’s first EIP is now more urgent than ever. Currently, the Office of Environmental Protection might serve notice on DAERA, despite the Minster having a plan ready and awaiting approval, due to no Executive agreement. 

“We are observing the daily consequences of the delay in implementing this Plan, these include threats to our food supply due to excessive rainfall, persistent problems with water quality, and the possibility of more blue-green algal blooms forming in Lough Neagh and other areas of Northern Ireland.

“This plan can be a significant milestone and give clear direction on how to combat the decline of our natural environment. Ultimately, it can help us focus our efforts on restoring the natural environment, tackling environmental pollution, and achieving a greener economy.

“The responsibility now lies with the NI Executive and in particular anyone or any party holding up progress on this. They must step up and act in the interests of Northern Ireland and protect its environment.”