Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, has today launched a public
consultation on policy proposals for the forthcoming Fisheries
and Water Environment Bill.
With Northern Ireland's sea, river and lake ecosystems
experiencing pressures from environmental change, fishing
activity and habitat disturbance, the Bill refreshes regulations
under The Fisheries Act (Northern Ireland) 1966 to ensure they
keep pace with changes in other parts of the UK.
During the consultation, members of the public are being asked
for their views on a range of policy proposals designed to
support a vibrant, profitable and sustainable sector, underpinned
by healthy ecosystems, resilient fish populations and
well-managed aquatic habitats.
The Bill also aims to establish a consistent regime across marine
and inland fisheries, ensuring that ecosystem health is
prioritised and that fish stocks are maintained or restored to
sustainable levels.
Minister Muir said: “The new Fisheries and Water
Environment Bill will introduce policies aimed at protecting
fisheries, the aquatic environment, and public health.
“Modernising the Fisheries Act (NI) 1966 is an
opportunity to provide a legislative framework that sets
fisheries and aquaculture management within an ecosystem-based
context and supports integrated management.
“I would encourage all interested parties to share their
views on the proposals before the deadline on
11th September.”
The public consultation is available at: https://consultations2.nidirect.gov.uk/daera/the-fisheries-and-water-environment-bill
Notes to editors:
- The public consultation on the draft Fisheries and Water
Environment Bill is open for 10 weeks.
