The Fisheries and Water Environment Bill - Protection of the Water Environment Consultation

Overview

Our seas, rivers and lakes are precious natural assets that are integral to our livelihoods, culture and the economy. Good water quality and habitats are not only essential for fish stocks but for health, hygiene and overall well-being. For businesses, good water quality is critical for operational efficiency, product safety and regulatory compliance.  

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs wishes to deter polluters and non-compliant operators, supporting the Departmental priority of protecting and restoring our water environment and delivering improvements to water quality.

The consultation outlines the policy proposals to be incorporated into the forthcoming Fisheries and Water Environment Bill. 

Why your views matter

We would encourage you to respond to the consultation as this will provide us with a better understanding of your views on the proposed policies for the Fisheries and Water Environment Bill.

What happens next

This consultation is part of the development of the policy which would underpin the Bill. Once the outcome of this policy consultation has been considered and the final policy has been agreed by the Executive and the Ministers are satisfied that the Bill is within the legislative competence of the Assembly, the process continues with the formality of the introduction of the Bill to the Assembly.