Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir has announced the appointment of three independent experts to review environmental governance in Northern Ireland.

The review will explore options, including the potential establishment of an independent environmental protection agency.

The panel will be chaired by Dr. Viviane Gravey, a senior lecturer in European Politics at Queen's University Belfast. Joining her are Diane Ruddock OBE, recently retired from the National Trust, and John McCallister, a current member of the Ulster Farmers’ Union.

Minister Muir highlighted the significance of the review, stating that it comes at a critical time as Northern Ireland faces mounting environmental challenges, including recurring blue-green algae blooms in Lough Neagh and other waterways.

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The panel's findings are expected to shape future policy on environmental oversight and protection in the region.

Minister Muir said: "I am committed to strengthening environmental governance in Northern Ireland and ensuring that we have the right structures in place to protect our environment and hold individuals and organisations to account for environmental breaches.

"However, it is really important that I make clear that the many calls for a different environmental governance regime and indeed my own desire to see one, are absolutely no reflection of the dedication and commitment I see every day in the staff of NIEA. These are public servants who continue to work tirelessly to protect and enhance our natural environment, whilst regulating the activities that can adversely affect it."

Minister Muir continued: "I have asked the panel to review our current environmental governance and bring forward improvement proposals, which may include proposals to establish an Independent Environmental Protection Agency, including the potential shape, policy and legal responsibility of such an organisation.

"The panel will lead a call for evidence early in the New Year that will give stakeholders an opportunity to provide their input and they will use the evidence gathered to make independent recommendations. The arrangements for this call for evidence and stakeholder engagement will be confirmed by the panel in due course."

The panel will provide their report next summer and the outcomes and recommendations will be considered by the Minister and any proposed changes will need to be agreed by the Executive.