Water

DOE has responsibility for the protection of the aquatic environment through the regulation of water quality, and the conservation of freshwater, marine flora, fauna, and hydrological processes.  In performing this duty DOE is required to have regard to the needs of industry and agriculture, the protection of fisheries and the protection of public health.

The development of environmental policy and legislation is the core function of Planning and Environmental Policy Group (PEPG). Our work covers the whole range of environmental issues including water and air quality, waste control, habitat and species protection, countryside protection, climate change and GMO's. For information on these topics see “Further Information “ on this page.

PEPG works closely with colleagues in the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, particularly Water Management Unit and Natural Heritage within the DOE who have responsibility for the implementation of legislation and for environmental monitoring. We also liaise closely with the Department of Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) in GB, and the devolved administrations in Scotland and Wales.

In addition to the above you will find further specific information on the NIEA Water homepage