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BBC News NI reported that there have been calls for stronger deterrents to address water pollution, as figures revealed 63 fines were issued between 2020 and 2024. In the same period, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) confirmed 4,202 water pollution incidents. The Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) is considering the introduction of fixed penalty notices to streamline the process of penalizing polluters without the need for lengthy court proceedings.
Friends of the Earth highlighted the need for more effective deterrents to curb water pollution, warning of increasing incidences of environmental crimes. While headlines have focused on toxic blue-green algae blooms in Lough Neagh, pollution affects waterways across Northern Ireland. Daera and the NIEA emphasized their commitment to addressing these issues by thoroughly investigating reports of pollution and taking action against offenders.
James Orr from Friends of the Earth pointed out the severity of the water pollution problem, advocating for the removal of the £20,000 cap on fines for polluters. He also called for the establishment of an independent Environmental Protection Agency. The consultation by Daera on fixed penalty notices includes proposals to increase the maximum fines to £50,000 in magistrates’ courts and potentially eliminate the limit in Crown courts.
Despite efforts to address water pollution, incidents continue to pose a threat to marine life and ecosystems. Anglers on the Moyola River reported pollution incidents, with Maurice Dorrity expressing concerns about the detrimental impact on fish and aquatic life. SDLP councillor Denies Johnston highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to incentivize eco-friendly practices and penalize offenders to prevent further environmental damage. Daera stressed the importance of strengthening environmental governance under the leadership of Minister Andrew Muir, emphasizing the use of fines and other enforcement measures to tackle water pollution effectively
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