NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots has outlined proposals for new legislation dealing with waste management and contaminated land.

The Waste and Contaminated Land (Amendment) Bill had its Second Stage debate in the Assembly on Tuesday.

Speaking before the debate the Minister said: "This Bill will empower our local councils to investigate thoroughly, and prosecute effectively, anyone who flouts the law by illegally disposing of waste. The legislation will help create an effective partnership between my Department and local councils to tackle this issue."

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The Minister also explained that his department was working with local government to develop a fly-tipping protocol. This Protocol will clearly establish the respective roles and responsibilities of the Department of the Environment and councils in dealing with fly-tipped waste.

The Minister stated that the Bill also amends the existing legislative framework for the management of land contaminated by pollution. This legislation has not yet been brought into operation in Northern Ireland.

Minister Poots added: "The proposed amendments reflect lessons learned through experience of operating the legislation in England and Wales. These changes should help ensure that, when commenced, Northern Ireland has a more effective contaminated land regime."

(NS/GK)