AQW 11732/22-27

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 10/05/2024
Answered On Date: 04/06/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what discussions he has had with counterparts in neighbouring jurisdictions regarding how best to address the impact of intensive poultry production on rivers and waterways across the UK and Ireland.

Answer:

I have had discussions with my counterparts in Ireland on reducing the impacts of the agricultural sector on water quality in rivers and waterways. These discussions will continue, and our officials engage regularly to share experiences and information as we work to improve water quality.

In relation to intensive poultry production, significant work has been carried out in Northern Ireland to develop an alternative sustainable outlet for utilising poultry litter and reduce impacts on water quality. My officials have shared the outcome of this work with their counterparts in the UK and Ireland.