DAERA Minister responds to OEP’s first statutory report on the Northern Ireland Environmental Improvement Plan - DAERA

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has responded to publication of the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP)’s independent assessment of the Northern Ireland Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP).

The report provides an important and objective assessment of progress to date and highlights the scale of the challenge to improve environmental outcomes across Northern Ireland. It is consistent with the Department’s own assessment, published in January 2026, outlining that further action is needed to accelerate delivery and strengthen environmental outcomes. While recognising areas of progress, it is clear that further action is required to deliver the sustained improvements needed.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “The Office for Environmental Protection’s report is a valuable assessment of where we are and the strides we still have to make to reverse the decades of damage done to our environment. The recommendations reinforce the urgent need for sustained, evidence-led, fully funded action for years to come from across government.”

Through the Environmental Improvement Plan, a targeted programme of work is being taken forward to address key environmental pressures. This includes action to tackle nutrient pollution and improve water quality in rivers, lakes and coastal waters; restore nature and biodiversity; reduce waste and support the transition to a circular economy; and improve air quality.

The Minister added: “Much like at Lough Neagh, there are no quick fixes for the wider issues threatening our environment. I am hopeful that we can collectively take the steps required to allow nature to recover with a change in perspective from everyone that recognises the importance of investing in environmental protection - because there is no future without nature, clean air and water.”