The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched a public information campaign to encourage people across Northern Ireland to help improve water quality as part of the Lough Neagh Action Plan.

The initiative sets out practical steps the public can take, including reporting suspected pollution, preventing household plumbing misconnections, and ensuring septic tanks are properly maintained.

Running under the tagline 'Better Choices. Better Water', the campaign will appear over the coming months on radio, digital channels and outdoor advertising sites across Northern Ireland.

A range of stakeholders helped shape the campaign, including the Lough Neagh Partnership, Forever Lough Neagh, NI Environment Link, NI Water and the Ulster Farmers’ Union. Launching the multimedia drive, DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: "Our precious water environment is essential to protecting public health, restoring nature and biodiversity and supporting communities and livelihoods.

"Everyone has a role to play in protecting and improving our water quality. Members of the public can help by reporting suspected pollution and ensuring household pipes and appliances are connected to the correct drain and by properly maintaining septic tanks. This campaign will reach people across Northern Ireland to raise awareness about the key actions people can take.

"This public messaging helps us to deliver important education and awareness which is a key element of the Lough Neagh Action Plan.

"I would like to thank all the stakeholders who have given their input throughout this process. Your support is vital, and my officials will continue to work with you as part of a collective effort to improve conditions on Lough Neagh, and other water bodies across Northern Ireland."