AQO 2816/22-27

Mr Danny Donnelly
Alliance Party
East Antrim

Tabled Date: 20/11/2025
Answered On Date: 03/12/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on his actions to establish an Independent Environmental Protection Agency.

Answer:

In 2020, New Decade New Approach had a commitment to set up an independent Environmental Protection Agency. There have also been two Assembly motions endorsing it in 2020 and in 2025. The independent expert panel have most recently provided unequivocal support for an independent EPA, in their report published in October 2025. However, despite this context and the clear and significant damage that failed environmental governance is having on our environment, our economy, people’s livelihoods, and crucially public trust and confidence, I am still seeking Executive support, in principle, to establish an independent Environmental Protection Agency in Northern Ireland.

I am not alone in finding this hugely frustrating when we consider the costs of inaction and the overwhelming support for change which will benefit everyone.

I would urge my Executive colleagues to provide the support needed.