The Northern Ireland Environment Minister has pledged £2 million for improved environmental regulations, and an additional 40 government jobs, at the launch of the Province's new Environment Agency.

Minister Sammy Wilson also vowed the new agency would forge an effective partnership with business in delivering a strong and safe environment.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) replaces the Environment and Heritage Service.



The minister said NIEA would be better equipped to tackle pollution, protect natural and built heritage and provide clear guidance to companies: "The environment and the economy do not need to be competitors although unfortunately there are some who see it that way. They can be partners helping us to build a stronger and better Northern Ireland."

"Common sense tells us to protect our environment and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency will help make that common practice. It’s not just a new name but a new way of working to make sure we keep the quality of our natural and built heritage and enable companies and communities to thrive."

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"Through its 'Better Regulation for a Better Environment' programme, the NIEA will support businesses by providing clearer guidance, better information and a simpler permitting process."

"These are significant changes to take away the mountains of paperwork and replace them with sensible, streamlined measures such as on-line application and payments,

" said Mr Wilson.

The minister said £2 million would be invested over the next three years for Better Regulation.

The creation of 40 new posts in the Agency will help Northern Ireland's businesses comply with environmental regulations. This includes an Agency-wide Environmental Crime Unit to tackle serious offences and persistent offenders.



The minister said NIEA would provide more information, more education and more direct support for business and their environmental management systems. 



Announcing a new range of information leaflets he explained: "These multilingual leaflets are part of making sure all of Northern Ireland's natural and built assets are accessible to all communities and visitors."

"This open approach symbolises the way in which the new Agency will build on the success of its predecessor by taking away the barriers, bureaucracy and burden. As a better regulator the NIEA will deliver a better environment and better bottom line for business," added Mr Wilson. 


Environmental groups, including the Assembly's only Green Party MLA, have continued to campaign for an independent Environment Agency in Northern Ireland.

(PR/JM)