DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has unveiled a series of robust measures designed to strengthen the regulation and enforcement of water pollution across Northern Ireland.

Addressing MLAs, the Minister highlighted the "unacceptable pressures" facing the region's water environment, noting that only 29% of surface waterbodies currently meet good ecological status.

The Minister revealed that more than 20 million tonnes of untreated wastewater and sewage are discharged into local waterways annually. He emphasised that the crisis extends beyond environmental concerns, impacting the economy, public health, and general confidence in water safety. To address this, the Minister intends to ensure that regulation is applied consistently and impartially across agriculture, industry, private businesses, and public bodies. A key part of the announcement involves the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) withdrawing from the Statement of Regulatory Principles and Intent (SORPI). This administrative arrangement with NI Water has been in place since 2007 and has previously limited regulatory enforcement actions. Minister Muir stated that ending this arrangement will ensure NI Water is regulated on the same basis as all other sectors.

Furthermore, the Minister confirmed plans to introduce a Fisheries and Water Environment Bill in May 2026. this legislation will modernise enforcement powers and adopt an ecosystem-based approach to water management. Under the new proposals, the maximum fine for water pollution will rise to £50,000, and fixed penalty notices will be introduced.

Additional plans include identifying the Shellfish Water Protected Area in Belfast Lough as a "sensitive area" under Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations. This designation would mandate enhanced treatment for wastewater discharges entering the Lough. A wider review is also currently underway to establish new standards for discharge consents throughout Northern Ireland.