Independent Environmental Regulator Recommended for Northern Ireland Amid Mounting Ecological Stress

An independent panel has recommended the establishment of a new environmental watchdog in Northern Ireland to enhance oversight and accountability amid mounting environmental pressures. Chaired by Dr Viviane Gravey, the panel proposes the regulator operate independently from government as a Non-Departmental Public Body, overseeing air and water quality, waste management, biodiversity, and marine environments. The report includes 32 recommendations designed to separate policy-making from regulation, improve public confidence, and ensure cooperation from all public authorities. The panel emphasized that environmental challenges require collective responsibility across government and society, not just the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). Additional proposals include an advisory committee to support the regulator, the use of civil sanctions to enforce compliance, and the creation of an Environmental Audit Committee within the Assembly for stronger oversight. DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has welcomed the recommendations and expressed commitment to establishing the independent regulator, considering next steps with the Executive and Assembly.