Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister, Andrew Muir, has met with key stakeholders at Lough Neagh following the launch of the 37-point report and action plan.

The Executive approved the 37-point report and action plan last week, which outlines measures for improving water quality and reducing blue-green algae. The Minister published the plan shortly thereafter.

Mr Muir emphasised the urgency of addressing blue-green algae, he said that there is no time to waste and that immediate action is needed. He added: "I am committed to working quickly to implement these measures, but I cannot do it alone."

-- Advertisement --

Speaking during his visit to Lough Neagh, Minister Muir said: "I'm delighted to be here today to meet with stakeholders following the approval and publication of my 37-point report and action plan to improve water quality of the lough, our waterways and to tackle the issue of blue green algae.

"We need to take collective action and working in partnership across government, with stakeholders, the agriculture sector and the public is fundamental to implement the 37 actions.

"I firmly believe that the actions proposed in this report will help deliver my vision to have a healthy, resilient environment with high water quality status and environment standards which support biodiversity and nature recovery in a living and productive landscape. The issues we are faced with are complex, but I will not shy away from the challenges ahead.

"Many of the actions in the report are already underway and the remaining will be taken forward as soon as possible, however significant investment in both the short and longer term is required and I will continue to work closely with executive colleagues and bid for further funding."