Consultation on the Introduction of fees for Marine Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Screening and Scoping Opinions

Overview

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is the marine licensing authority for the Northern Ireland inshore region (0-12 nautical miles) as set out at section 113(6)(b) of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009.

In discharging its marine licensing function, DAERA supports sustainable development and effective regulation in the Northern Ireland inshore region.

This consultation paper seeks views and comments on proposals to apply fixed fees for providing screening and scoping opinions for developments in the Northern Ireland marine area. DAERA is also seeking views on an Equality and Disability Screening and Rural Needs Assessment which have been prepared in respect of the proposed introduction of EIA fees.

The introduction of fixed fees for EIA services is an important part of ensuring that costs are recovered in a fair, transparent and sustainable way, in line with Managing Public Money Northern Ireland. It also forms part of a wider programme to make the marine licensing system more efficient and equitable.

Screening and scoping opinions are discretionary, pre‑application services provided at the request of developers.

This consultation is likely to be of interest to businesses, operators, clubs/associations and individuals, conservation bodies and environmental groups that have an interest in the authorisation of activities which can impact on the marine environment, navigational safety, and human health.

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/ga/consultations