Northern Ireland's first draft Ammonia Strategy is to undergo an extensive public consultation.

Locals have been invited to help shape the new strategy, which will aim to address the adverse effects ammonia emissions have on nature and public health.

Dave Foster, DAERA's Director of Natural Environment Policy said: "The draft strategy, which was developed under the leadership of the Department's former Minister Edwin Poots, recognises that agriculture makes a significant contribution to the Northern Ireland economy. However, those farming practices contribute to ammonia emissions, which in turn have adverse effects on nature and public health. 

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"The draft strategy also recognises that rigorous action on ammonia is needed in the coming years and that it is important that we find the right approach that helps our local farm businesses and rural communities thrive and be sustainable while at the same time protecting our environment."

Northern Ireland has almost 250 sites designated for protection which are sensitive to the impacts of ammonia and nitrogen. DAERA has legal obligations to ensure these sites are protected. The vast majority of designated sites are currently experiencing ammonia concentrations and nitrogen deposition above the critical levels and loads at which damage to plants may occur.

Dave Foster added: "We know that we need to take action in the coming years to reduce the levels of ammonia if we are to achieve the improved outcomes we all want to see when it comes to nature and to public health, while also supporting local farming.

"Finding the right pathway to improvement will be crucial and we are keen to have as many views as possible from as wide a cross-section of the population on the measures proposed in the strategy.

"We would therefore encourage all interested parties to submit their views on the consultation before the closing date of 23:59 on Friday 03 March 2023."