John was speaking after the Committee failed to tighten penalties for those who repeatedly pollute waterways – a move to reverse a 2022 relaxation of the rules under then Minister Poots, adding that all parties must now explain their U-turn on protecting the environment.

The South Antrim MLA has said: “Every single person who opted against strengthening penalties on regulatory breaches, which include incidents of pollution, for those who damage our waterways should hang their heads in shame.

“Each and every one of their parties have made commitments to tackle the on-going crisis that is engulfing our natural environment.  The problems simply haven’t gone away as the seasons changed.  This was a shameful move.

“Today was an opportunity to vote for practical measures but when opportunity was presented other parties refused to support, only Alliance was prepared to say enough is enough and deliver.

“These penalties should never have been relaxed in 2022.  It was a bad move by the previous Minister who had no desire to concern himself with the future.  As Minister Muir continues to work towards fixing the mistakes of the past, it’s clear only Alliance is determined to tackle the environmental issues that will impact future generations.

“I’m disgusted at the result today. You would need to have been living in a cave not to have seen the extent and urgency of pollution at Lough Neagh, and it's vital that every possible measure is implemented to reverse the decline of our waterways, nature and biodiversity.”

ENDS//