DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has convened a workshop aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and academia in addressing climate change and environmental challenges in Northern Ireland.

The workshop, the first in a series, brought together leading scientists and academics from across the UK and Ireland to discuss potential science-led interventions. The event built upon existing strong ties between DAERA and the local academic community.

The initial workshop, held at Stormont Estate, focused on the Lough Neagh Report and Action Plan. Future events will explore broader climate and environmental issues.

Minister Muir emphasised the importance of harnessing scientific expertise to inform policy decisions and drive effective climate action. By fostering collaboration between government and academia, DAERA aims to develop innovative solutions to address the pressing challenges facing Northern Ireland's environment.

Welcoming those in attendance Mr Muir said: "Since my appointment as Minister I have remained fully committed to delivering tangible actions across every element of my very broad and full remit. I requested this series of workshops to build on the already strong engagement between DAERA and the academic community.

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"This includes tackling climate change, protecting and enhancing our natural environment and addressing water quality issues, strengthening environmental governance, supporting sustainable, resilient and productive agri-food and fishing sectors, safeguarding animal health and welfare and building resilient and diverse rural communities.

"I want our policy makers to have access to the best available data, evidence and knowledge which will benefit every citizen in Northern Ireland. Key to achieving this is my Department working in close partnership with all of you and with our key stakeholders.

"The establishment of the Climate Plus Biodiversity and Water Quality Co-Centre has been an exciting step forward in forging close working relationships with academics, industry, policymakers and wider stakeholders.

"Since their launch earlier this year, the Co-Centres have been bringing together scientists from AFBI, Queen's and Ulster University, in partnership with leading scientific teams in the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain.

"I want world class evidence and data to underpin all of my Departmental policies and strategies, as it is vital for us to collectively meet environmental and climate challenges, but also to realise new opportunities which lie ahead.

"Today is, I hope, a key early step to build and further strengthen the wider partnerships with all of you, so that we can truly work collectively on the most important challenges of our generation. I am determined that our approach will be ambitious, transformational and fair.

"Across this region we have so much expertise, knowledge and skills and a strong history of innovation; now's the time to work together better than we ever have done before."