Environmental Agency Launched in Northern Ireland

The launch of the new Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has spurred a wide range of measures to “strengthen and modernize environmental regulation in Northern Ireland”.

The NIEA, introduced by NI Environment Minister Sammy Wilson on July 1, is slated to replace the former Environment and Heritage Service. Wilson stated that the NIEA will be “better equipped to provide clear guidance” to businesses and will continue to “crack down on waste crime”.

Mr. Wilson stated that approximately £2 million would be invested over the next three years. The funds will go to Better Regulation, the creation of 40 new jobs to help with business compliance, plus the formation of an Environmental Crime Unit. The ECU Unit will be a specialised team responsible for tackling “serious offences and persistent offenders”, and will build on the existing experience and inter-agency partnerships.

“Through its ‘Better Regulation for a Better Environment’ programme, the NIEA will support businesses by providing clearer guidance, better information and a simpler permitting process,” Wilson said. “These are significant changes to take away the mountains of paperwork and replace them with sensible, streamlined measures such as online application and payments.”

Mr. Wilson said: “Common sense tells us to protect our environment and the NIEA will help make that common practice. It’s not just a new name but a new way of working to make sure we keep the quality of our natural and built heritage and enable companies and communities to thrive.”

For more information, visit: ni-environment.gov.uk