Home / Environment / Northern Ireland Faces Environmental Crisis, Calls for Urgent Action
Northern Ireland Faces Environmental Crisis, Calls for Urgent Action
4 Nov
Summary
- Northern Ireland's environment is "not fit for purpose and failing everyone"
- Calls for establishing an independent environmental protection agency
- Lough Neagh and illegal Mobuoy dump site as examples of failed environmental governance
As of November 4th, 2025, Northern Ireland is facing a critical environmental crisis, and the Stormont Assembly has been urged to take immediate action. According to the Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir, the current environmental governance system in the region is "not fit for purpose and failing everyone."
Muir has described an "endless list" of examples of failed environmental governance, including the issues with Lough Neagh and the illegal dump site at Mobuoy. He has also highlighted the ongoing decline in nature and air quality across Northern Ireland. Citing these pressing concerns, Muir is now urging the Stormont Executive to agree in principle to the establishment of an independent, environmental protection agency in the region.
The minister has stated that Northern Ireland is lagging behind when it comes to environmental protection and that he often faces criticism for trying to address these problems. However, Muir believes that now is a "pivotal moment" for the region, and decisive action is needed to change course and meet its environmental obligations.
