Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister, Andrew Muir, has acknowledged that the country must swiftly address environmental issues following the latest report from the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP).

The report, which assesses the drivers and pressures affecting terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity in Northern Ireland, identifies land use change and pollution as major factors impacting the natural environment as well as climate change and invasive species.

"I acknowledge this report which provides a comprehensive and accurate overview of the current issues that need to be addressed to support nature recovery," said Minister Muir.

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"It is clear that we must change practices which contribute to the loss of our valuable habitats. Recommendations ranging from reduction of pollution from both agriculture and sewage, as well as changing land use to increase biodiversity in rural and urban areas are unsurprising.

"The agriculture sector is already making moves towards addressing many of the issues in this report, and we as Government must continue to provide both the right policies and financial support to place us on the correct path to reverse environmental degradation."

The Minister also highlighted the progress made in regards to environmental issues, but remained aware not to get complacent on the matter.

"In recent months, I have made significant progress by receiving approval for the Lough Neagh Report and Action Plan, as well as the Environmental Improvement Plan, serving as Northern Ireland's first Environment Strategy," he said.

"We all know more needs to be done quickly and I am determined to work together with others to turnaround the situation."