Andrew Muir
North Down · Alliance Party · Northern Ireland
“Thank you very much, Mr Deputy Speaker. As Minister, I am grateful to the Chair of the Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee and to Members from all sides of the Chamber for their consideration of the Bill and their contributions to the debate, which have been valuable and useful.”
“I will write to you with regard to your query. <BR /> <BR />The other issue, as I said, is reporting pollution incidents so that they can be effectively investigated. There is a duty on everyone to do that promptly.”
“Aquaculture provides real economic opportunities, and the Bill will help ensure that those opportunities are realised responsibly without compromising the environment. Importantly, the Bill includes transitional provisions so that existing licences can continue seamlessly as aquaculture licences, with their conditions unchanged.”
“That is not about being punitive for its own sake; it is about ensuring that the legal framework reflects the true value of our natural resources and the importance of protecting them for future generations.”
“<BR /> <BR />On strengthening the regulation of inland waters, the Bill modernises long-standing powers under the Fisheries Act (Northern Ireland) 1966, ensuring that they are fit for today's environmental and industry challenges. That matters because fisheries management today goes far beyond simply catching fish.”
“<BR /> <BR />A full regulatory impact assessment of the financial impact has been completed. It concluded that the Bill does not introduce significant new financial burdens and that any costs are outweighed by the long-term benefits.”
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“In 2018, Colin Glen Forest Park and Colin Park were transferred to Colin Glen Trust via a community asset transfer under a 999-year lease. That innovative arrangement was designed to ensure that public assets are used to maximum benefit for communities and the wider public good. That aligns with my objective of promoting the accessibility of natural spaces, parks and recreational routes. The transfer included a three-year programme of funding to support Colin Glen Trust as it worked towards long-term financial sustainability. That is an ongoing process, and my officials continue to work closely with the trust to support its efforts to achieve that goal. <BR /> <BR />In addition, my Department has supported Colin Glen Trust in delivering significant capital investment and initiatives aimed at increasing visitor numbers.”
“As the Member will be aware, I have outlined the actions that have been taken on that and how we are focused on turning that around as part of the planning improvement plan. One of the key issues is resourcing. The Member will be aware, as Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, that a recent Northern Ireland Audit Office report stated that it takes approximately seven months to get someone into post in the NI Civil Service (NICS). The process of recruiting and putting people into post is far too slow and is holding back delivery on this issue and many others. That needs to be addressed. It is of great concern to me. There are posts that we want to fill but cannot because NICS HR is far too slow and ineffective.”
“I am conscious of that, and it will be covered later in Question Time. It is not right or fair that a separate regulatory regime is in place for Northern Ireland Water, and I am seeking the support of my Executive colleagues to bring that to an end.”
“<BR /> <BR />It is important that we give responses in a timely manner, but it is also important that we respect environmental law, because NIEA has an obligation under that law. District councils have a role to play to make sure that, when applications come in, queries are dealt with, primarily through the agent, before going through the engagement process with NIEA. Some go through that process six times. That is in no one's interest.”
“I respect the office that MLAs hold. As I outlined, we have provided for more detailed updates to be put in place. Those are taking place now. I have inherited an arrangement that existed previously. I understand the importance of making sure that you get timely, detailed updates, and that is what we are seeking to achieve. We are trying to strike a balance. When we ask for updates, we take officials away from dealing with the consultation to give us those updates. There is now a process in place to provide more updates. The sheet of paper that I am holding outlines significant pieces of work that have been done and that are ongoing, and I will write to the Member to set those out.”
“I sought to fix the process to ensure that people get a much more detailed response, and a new process has been put in place in recent weeks. We are really keen to ensure that there is better customer service. We need speedier responses but also better communication. Officials are focused on that, and I met them recently to emphasise the case for improvement.”
“Thank you, Diane. I recognise your frustration about the matter. We have put in place the planning improvement plan to turn things around so that we provide speedier responses. Councils have a role to play in making sure that, before applications go to the NIEA for a response, they are of high quality so that we do not get into a situation in which the NIEA reconsults on an application on perhaps six occasions, which is in no one's interest. A prioritisation process is available to councils. I know that they have used it in cases associated with economic development. <BR /> <BR />I understand that the previous process for providing updates, including to elected representatives, came into effect in 2021.”
“To date, 90% of applications received during the 2025-26 financial year have been responded to. My officials aim to clear all remaining outstanding consultations by the end of September of this year.”
“The performance rate of all statutory consultees over the five years from 2020 to 2025 ranged from 69% to 77%, with my Department’s performance rate ranging from 59% to 72%. <BR /> <BR />My officials are committed to doing better. There is an early indication of improvements in performance from the outworkings of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency planning improvement plan. <BR /> <BR />Since 1 April 2026, my Department has received 510 planning applications, of which it has responded to 364. It responded to 99% of those within the statutory target. In the outstanding cases, the Department is on track to meet a similar performance rate. Tackling planning applications that are outstanding from 2025-26 remains a priority, and my officials are taking forward targeted actions to secure steady and measurable reductions.”
“In the past five years, the shortest and longest response times for planning applications were on the same day as received and 515 days respectively. The varying time frame for application responses can be due to the complexity of the case and the capacity of consultee teams. Response times can also be affected by poor-quality applications and insufficient provision of information from the outset, leading to requests for further information and a reconsultation. The median response time of 11 days for all planning applications in the past five years therefore provides a better overall performance indicator. <BR /> <BR />The statutory performance of DAERA and other statutory consultees is monitored and published quarterly and yearly by the Department for Infrastructure.”
“Thank you, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker. I am happy to support the extension of the Committee Stage, but I emphasise the importance of that scrutiny taking place and getting the Bill back here for its Consideration Stage, ideally before January of next year.”
“As I have said, I am content to agree, but it is important that I place on record the importance of effective scrutiny of the private Member's Bill and of completing that scrutiny as soon as possible, because, once the Committee has completed that, the Bill will move to Consideration Stage, Further Consideration Stage and Final Stage. The scrutiny of the Bill is therefore critical. <BR /> <BR />The Bill is being considered in the context of our sustainable agriculture programme (SAP), which we continue to roll out. That programme was carefully drafted, and stakeholders have been involved. We are aware of the affordability concerns about the statutory requirement in the Bill to introduce a new ANC payment scheme without conditions attached. We also —.”
“<BR /> <BR />Recognising that challenge does not, however, remove our responsibility to legislate carefully, spend public money responsibly and ensure that any statutory scheme is effective, affordable and deliverable. During the Second Stage of the private Member's Bill, we heard arguments in support of the need for an areas of natural constraint payment and that the proposed Bill could be used to support environmental improvements. Crucially, Members stressed the importance of clarity regarding funding arrangements for any future ANC scheme. <BR /> <BR />The motion before the Assembly today is to extend the Committee Stage of the private Member's Bill to January 2027.”
“Those areas, which make up areas of natural constraint, otherwise known as "ANCs" — lots of acronyms — form a significant and valued part of our rural landscape and remain central to livestock production, environmental stewardship and the social fabric of our rural communities. As Declan outlined at the Second Stage of the Bill, farmers who operate in ANCs face inherent structural challenges linked to geography, soil quality and climate. They continue to manage land of high environmental value — I support and recognise that — whilst producing livestock that contributes to the wider agri-food supply chain. That contribution is acknowledged and fully understood.”
“No problem. Thank you very much, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker. I beg your slight indulgence as I congratulate Diane on completing Belfast City Marathon on Sunday, just two weeks after London. That is a big achievement, and it is important that I recognise it. I am much in awe. <BR /> <BR />I will be relatively brief in my response to the request for an extension to the Committee Stage. I support the extension, but it is important that I set out some concerns. Before I do that, I recognise the importance of farming in areas classified as severely disadvantaged areas, which, as Members know, are otherwise known as "SDAs".”
“My commitment to farmers, rural communities and the House is that tackling bovine TB will remain a top priority. We will continue to pursue science-led solutions, listen to those most affected and work in partnership to reduce the burden of the disease. Farmers deserve a future with less uncertainty, less stress and greater confidence that the system is fair, effective and moving in the right direction. I am determined to work towards that future in partnership with everyone.”
“<BR /> <BR />Efforts to control and eradicate bovine TB now span more than 60 years. The blueprint rightly acknowledges that reversing long-term trends and progressing towards eradication will take time and, realistically, more than one Assembly mandate. However, I conclude on a note of cautious but genuine optimism, without underestimating the impact that bovine TB has on farming families in Northern Ireland and the journey that we need to make. Our latest figures show herd incidents at 9·66% for the 12 months to the end of February, which is the lowest rate since the summer of 2022. Whilst my epidemiologists quite rightly urge caution in interpreting short-term trends, and they are right to do so, that improvement matters. It shows that, when we act collectively and decisively, we can make a difference. We have to do it together.”
“Since becoming Minister, I have been consistently clear that all elements involved in bovine TB transmission and spread must be addressed, and that remains the case. Members will be aware that a judicial review decision in October 2023 quashed my predecessor's decision to proceed with a non-selective badger cull in certain areas. As a result, I am legally required to consult again. I can only take a lawful decision on the way forward after I have considered responses to a fresh consultation, alongside updated scientific advice. Significant progress has been made in preparing the consultation, which will be issued once the necessary environmental assessment work is completed. Given the legal history, I am determined that the process will be robust, transparent and defensible.”
“Around 700 farms per year are expected to benefit from that important initiative, and they will receive two visits, most likely from their own trusted veterinary practitioner. <BR /> <BR />I note that today's motion refers to the impact of bovine TB on animal welfare. Perhaps the most pressing TB-related welfare matter is the inability to move stock out of broken-down herds. Consequently, as highlighted, my officials have engaged closely with the TB partnership steering group to agree new criteria for alternative control herds — both finishing and rearing units — which could help alleviate some of the pressure of overstocking, whilst also being compliant with the legislative requirements. I will receive an update shortly on their progress. <BR /> <BR />The motion also calls for immediate action on wildlife intervention.”
“In addition, the area experiences more cattle exports than imports, both of which are important factors in supporting the successful delivery of the pilot. Indeed, I am already greatly encouraged by reports that the sett survey work is progressing extremely well and by the high levels of farmer engagement in the area. I am confident that the evidence generated through the work will prove invaluable in shaping future policy decisions, North and South. <BR /> <BR />Good progress has also been made in delivering several other key priorities in the blueprint, which include work to introduce movement testing, while procurement is due to begin shortly for the roll-out of Northern Ireland-wide, on-farm biosecurity assessments.”
“The pilot includes enhanced cattle testing, strengthened movement controls, improved biosecurity and, subject to licensing, further research on the test and vaccinate or remove approaches to wildlife intervention. <BR /> <BR />I take issue with the assertion in the amendment that the area chosen for the pilot in Northern Ireland is somehow not representative of our overall bovine TB picture. Although a border area was chosen to align with DAFM’s preference for north-east Donegal, herd incidents in the selected regionalised area in 2024 was marginally higher, at just over 11%, when compared to the average for Northern Ireland of 10·7%. The chosen region also benefits from a number of natural boundaries, such as the River Foyle and the Sperrins.”
“Further work is under way to allow herdkeepers to access their detailed TB testing history online through the Northern Ireland food animal information system, empowering farmers with better information to manage risk. <BR /> <BR />The motion, rightly, recognises the regionalisation research pilot that is now under way in the north-west. That five-year initiative, which is being taken forward in partnership with the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), represents a genuinely innovative approach on this island. Funded through the Republic of Ireland's Shared Island initiative and UK Government transformation funding, it is the first time that a structured, regionalised approach to TB control has been trialled on a cross-border basis.”
“<BR /> <BR />We have increased the use of supplementary interferon-gamma testing in breakdown herds from 17,000 tests in 2024-25 to 24,000 tests in 2025-26. Subject to funding, I would like to increase that to a further 30,000 in the coming year. The test is an important tool, allowing us to detect infection that is missed by the tuberculin skin test. Working with the partnership steering group, my officials are considering the criteria under which its use should be mandated, bringing Northern Ireland into closer alignment with practice elsewhere. <BR /> <BR />We are also improving transparency for farmers. To date, officials have highlighted the risks associated with cattle that have previously recorded inconclusive test results.”
“That is why, in January last year, I established the TB partnership steering group and tasked it with considering, at pace, the Chief Veterinary Officer's recommendations on the next steps for our TB programme. Just three months later, in April last year, I was pleased to endorse the group's agreed blueprint for eradication. The blueprint represents a new, clear step forward for government/stakeholder cooperation. It is not a theoretical document; it is a practical, jointly owned road map for action. It demonstrates what can be achieved when government, farming organisations, vets and environment and industry bodies work together in good faith. Real progress is already being made, but I acknowledge that more needs to be done.”
“To address that, my officials are working closely with the TB partnership steering group on new criteria for alternative control herds — both finishing and rearing units — that could alleviate overstocking pressures whilst remaining fully compliant with the legislative requirements. I expect to see further advice on that shortly. <BR /> <BR />Despite the challenges, I appreciate Members' recognition of the progress that has been made. Since becoming Minister, I have been clear that meaningful reductions in bovine TB must be science-led, evidence-based and grounded in partnership. As has been set out in the debate by other contributors, no single measure and no single stakeholder can resolve the problem alone.”
“Support services such as Rural Support do vital work, and I continue to encourage anyone who is affected, emotionally or mentally, to seek help early. <BR /> <BR />The motion also draws our attention to the environmental consequences of bovine TB and animal disease in general. While the impacts are not well quantified, there is little doubt that the premature slaughter of around 20,000 cattle each year carries a significant environmental cost. Evidence from farmers, including in the UFU report, shows that herd owners often retain surplus stock to mitigate production losses, particularly in dairy herds.”
“<BR /> <BR />Alongside a physical risk is the very real toll on mental health. I have spoken directly to farmers who have described the strain of living under prolonged restriction, the uncertainty, the repeated testing and the effect on their immediate family. The UFU's recent study reinforces those experiences, showing that stress and anxiety often peak during testing and breakdown periods but do not simply disappear afterwards. I was particularly struck by the finding that 14% of calls to Rural Support relate specifically to the impact of bovine TB. That is a stark statistic, and it should make us all pause and reflect on the adverse wider impact on farm families. Let me say this clearly to farmers and their families: no one should face this alone.”
“First, however, I will respond on some of the important issues that the motion and amendment raise. The motion refers to the recent increase in human cases of tuberculosis in Northern Ireland. Although only a small number of those cases are attributable to bovine TB — three out of 86 cases that have been notified to the Public Health Agency, as was set out during the debate — they nonetheless serve as an important reminder that bovine TB is a zoonotic disease. Our TB eradication efforts have their origins in public health. The pasteurisation of milk, meat inspections and the compulsory surveillance programme have, thankfully, removed the widespread risks from bovine TB that were seen in the early 20th century. However, farm families and those working closely with cattle in affected herds must be mindful of the risk to their health.”
“When those indirect costs are set alongside the £70 million that is borne by the taxpayer, it becomes clear that bovine TB is exerting an unacceptable strain on public finances and the farming economy. It is vital, however, that we maintain a credible and internationally respected bovine TB control regime. Our trade in bovine products — meat and dairy — now approaches £3 billion annually. Market confidence, consumer trust and access to expert markets depend on the integrity of our animal health systems. That is why reforming and strengthening the bTB control programme is not optional. Rather, it is essential in order to protect farmers, taxpayers and the wider economy. <BR /> <BR />I will return to talking about the concrete steps that we are taking to effect reform.”
“<BR /> <BR />The financial cost of delivering the Northern Ireland bovine TB control programme is well documented, and it is clear that the current trajectory is not sustainable for the public purse. It is important, however, that I state that departmental expenditure tells only one part of the story. Just two weeks ago, the Ulster Farmers' Union, working with the Livestock and Meat Commission and the Dairy Council, published a valuable and timely study by the Andersons Centre on the indirect costs to farmers of bovine TB. The report estimates the wider costs of lost output, extra labour, disrupted breeding plans and the impacts on cash flow at £96 million a year.”
“Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. I thank the Members who tabled what is important motion, and I thank Members for their contributions to the debate. <BR /> <BR />Bovine tuberculosis is not simply an animal health issue but one of the most persistent, complex and emotionally draining challenges facing our agri-food sector. Members are correct to highlight the very real burden that the disease places on farmers and their families. The TB breakdown does not end when the last animal is tested and removed. Its effects on farm viability, family life and mental well-being can linger for months or even years. The disease also has a wider impact on our rural communities, resulting in unsustainable costs to industry, farm families and government.”
“I will continue to make my winding-up speech. <BR /> <BR />I present the regulations because it is important that we take climate action. We have already published a climate adaptation plan for Northern Ireland, and I will be seeking Executive approval for the Northern Ireland climate action plan, on which we have consulted. Some of the nonsense that is being said here distracts from reality. It is very clear that climate action is not something that we can wish away; it is action that we must take. I will not turn my back on the opportunities to lead on decarbonisation that we in Northern Ireland have and that businesses are grasping. <BR /> <BR />I commend the regulations to the House and urge Members to endorse them. We must travel the road of decarbonisation so that all our citizens can benefit from climate action.”
“That is really important to me and to the people of Northern Ireland, and, as was clearly evidenced by the consultation, there is strong support for it. I present the regulations —.”
“It is correct that the regulations that I am presenting today arose from the climate change legislation passed in 2022. It was passed unanimously at Final Stage. It is important that we respect the democratic mandate of the House and the reality of the advantages that Northern Ireland can get from decarbonisation. <BR /> <BR />Unlike others in the House, I will not mimic the Trump playbook, which perpetuates reliance on fossil fuels. We need to get off the fossil fuel roller coaster, decarbonise, move to clean local energy and let people take advantage of that. The journey that we must travel has to be fair. It has to be just, and it has to make sure that nobody is left behind. That is why we are establishing the just transition commission.”
“business leaders set out very clearly to the attendees the realities that the science and evidence on climate change present to us. We owe it to communities around Northern Ireland to take climate action. I will not consign people to the devastation that will be on the journey ahead if we do not take action. Climate change is a reality in Northern Ireland.”
“The Member may be touching on a case that is before the courts at the moment, and I would be conscious of that. I am very clear, however, that climate action and infrastructure investment are not incompatible. That is very clear. It is also very clear that history will not judge the DUP well when it comes to some of its contributions to this debate and to other debates on climate change. <BR /> <BR />This morning, I was at an event at which business leaders”
“<BR /> <BR />The consultation made it clear that there was overwhelming support for the just transition commission across all sectors and stakeholders. That was clearly evidenced during the time that we were holding the consultation and in our evaluation of the responses. I thank everyone who took the time to engage on the development of the commission through that process. Their input has been key and is reflected in the regulations. Given that the commission's work will be long-term, the regulations have been framed carefully to ensure that it can operate effectively while remaining flexible and carry out its work transparently. <BR /> <BR />As Minister, I am firmly committed to a just transition. The commission is a welcome and important step in ensuring that our decarbonisation is fair and that no one is left behind.”
“To assist with transparency, the regulations create the requirement that all reports produced by the commission be laid with the Assembly. The regulations also provide for the commission to request information from public bodies to assist it in its functions. The strength of views from the consultation focused on the sectors the representation of which has now been added in as being mandated. To ensure that the commission can function effectively, it is important not to make it unwieldy or overly administrative. I recognise the wide range of voices that must be heard, and the commission will undertake extensive engagement in fulfilling its advisory and oversight role. It also has the ability to bring in other voices and skills in the form of expert advice, observer roles or working groups and committees.”
“The regulations make provision for the commission to establish ad hoc committees or invite external experts. It is expected that the commission will utilise that power whenever it requires specific expertise that is not already held in its membership.”
“It is also considered important to have a rural representative on the commission, because it is important that rural views are heard and that all communities are included in the discussion. Whilst reducing emissions will deliver long-term financial benefits, it requires upfront investment. Including a representative from the green finance sector will provide access to expertise on private-sector green finance initiatives that may help to support decarbonisation.”
“I do not intend to use that flexibility in the current mandate or in the process going forward. The Act requires the membership to include seven sectors: academia, agriculture, civic society, environment, fisheries, trade unions and youth groups. Five sectors that were identified as a result of public consultation are also included. It was important that we listened to the feedback on the proposals in the consultation. The sectors that will be added are built environment, energy, green finance, rural communities and transport. <BR /> <BR />The draft regulations propose making it a legal requirement that the commission's representation include two members from the environment sector and three from the agriculture sector, given the size and diverse nature of those sectors, to ensure that their voices are heard.”
“I thank Members for their responses. This is an important moment for the Assembly and for Northern Ireland. It is the important moment when we affirm the importance of the journey of decarbonisation being just and fair and of ensuring that nobody is left behind. I assure Members that, on the passage, hopefully, of the regulations, we will move swiftly to the public appointments process. I encourage people to apply for the positions available. <BR /> <BR />The principle of just transition runs through the climate change legislation and is integral to my vision, as Minister, of ensuring that our decarbonised society is fair and that nobody is left behind. As I have set out, the commission will initially comprise 16 members, including a chairperson, and will represent 12 sectors, with the flexibility to expand.”
“Does the Member acknowledge that there is a planning improvement plan in place for those response times but that we have to understand our environmental responsibilities and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency has an important role to play in that?”
“I look forward to Members' contributions, and I encourage the Assembly to support these important regulations so that the public appointments process can begin and this important commission can become operational.”
“<BR /> <BR />Costs have been carefully controlled. The commission will be funded by my Department at an estimated cost of around £150,000 a year to deliver its statutory duties, supported by a small secretariat. The regulatory impact assessment, along with equality screening, a full child rights impact assessment and a rural needs impact assessment all identified positive impacts. <BR /> <BR />A just transition is not simply a procedural requirement but is a social, economic and generational responsibility. The regulations put in place the structure that is needed to ensure fairness, accountability and expert oversight as we decarbonise our economy.”
“In addition, the CCC recommended that the commission's work should focus on those sectors that are most relevant to achieving decarbonisation in a fair and just way, and that its core membership should be clearly defined. <BR /> <BR />The regulations respond positively and directly to that advice. They strike a careful balance between broad, inclusive representation across key sectors and the flexibility that is needed for the commission to operate effectively, including provision for membership of up to 20 individuals. In line with the requirements of the 2022 Act, I laid a written ministerial statement before the Assembly, at the same time as I laid the draft regulations, to provide Members with further detail on the approach that has been taken and on how the CCC's advice has been reflected.”
“The CCC published its advice on 2 June 2025, welcoming the establishment of the commission and noting the important role that it will play. The CCC recognises that the commission will enable strong collaboration between government and industry, enable meaningful engagement with workers and local communities and assist Departments in delivering net zero in a way that is fully aligned with the just transition principle. The CCC also emphasised the importance of the commission in being able to provide formal advice and recommendations to government. The draft regulations explicitly provide for that role. <BR /> <BR />The commission is required to publish and lay its reports before the Assembly, thus ensuring full transparency and accountability.”
“<BR /> <BR />My Department has sought to establish best practice to ensure that the approach to a just transition and any lessons that can be learned from other regions in the UK and Ireland are taken into account and used to inform the draft regulations. To that effect, my Department has engaged closely with counterparts in Scotland and Ireland, where just transition commissions have already been established, and has reviewed just transition policy in other countries. National and international best practice have been factored into the draft regulations to determine how commission members will be recruited and how the body will operate once established. <BR /> <BR />As is required under section 56(2) of the 2022 Act, my Department sought advice from the UK Climate Change Committee (CCC) on the proposals to make the regulations.”
“As a result, the draft regulations provide for mandated representation across 12 sectors, with 16 members, including a chair, while also allowing flexibility for future expansion, up to a maximum of 20 members. That strikes a balance between breadth of experience and effective governance. <BR /> <BR />To ensure that the commission remains agile, the draft regulations also allow for the establishment of ad hoc committees and work groups to support it. That will enable wider expertise to be brought in when required without making the commission unwieldy. The commission is also empowered to request information from experts and public bodies, including local authorities and those that represent consumers.”
“Alongside strong views on biodiversity and the rural economy, there was also clear support for including the built environment sector. <BR /> <BR />Given the different issues facing rural communities and the different impacts on them, many respondents also proposed that there should be a dedicated rural representative on the commission, distinct from and in addition to a representative of the agriculture sector as already mandated by the Act. I have listened to stakeholders and expanded the membership of the commission to include those specific sectors and groups. <BR /> <BR />There was also a high level of support from respondents for some sectors, owing to their size and diversity, benefiting from having more than one representative on the commission. That view came across strongly from the environment and agriculture sectors.”