The Department of the Environment is responsible for the conservation of water resources under the Water Act NI 1972 and for protecting water standards both inland and coastal waters. The Department must consider the needs of industry, agriculture, protection of fisheries, public health, preservation of immunity, and conservation of flora and fauna. The Department may […]
The Surface Waters Dangerous Substances Classification Regulation requires the Department to establish water quality objectives for dangerous substances as laid down in the EU Directive on Dangerous Substances. It must classify inland freshwaters, coastal waters, and territorial waters. The requirements are also reflected in the Department’s powers in relation to water quality objectives. The groundwater […]
There are two separate schemes for the designation of sites for protection for both flora and fauna, as well as geological and other factors. The domestic legislation derives from the Nature Conservation and Amenity (NA Order 1985, as amended). Superimposed on this are the so-called European sites under the natural habitats directive. These are implemented, […]
There are two separate schemes for the designation of sites for protection for both flora and fauna, as well as geological and other factors. The domestic legislation derives from the Nature Conservation and Amenity (NA Order 1985, as amended). Superimposed on this are the so-called European sites under the natural habitats directive. These are implemented, […]
The Clean Air (NI) Order 1981 is administered by the district council and is based on the Clean Air Act (NI) 1964. It is an offence to emit dark smoke from a chimney of a building. Smoke includes soot, ash, grit, and gritty particles emitted in smoke. There is a technical definition of dark smoke. […]
Prior to 1997, air pollution regulation in Northern Ireland was governed by the Alkali Works Regulation Act 1906, as amended. Industries were required to register annually with the Alkali and Radiochemical Inspector within the Department of the Environment service. These industries were obligated to employ the best practicable means for preventing the emission of pollutants […]
The Department is to maintain monuments under its guardianship. It has full control and management of them. With a view to fulfilling its duty, it may do all things necessary or expedient for the maintenance of the monument. Persons authorized by the Department may enter the site of the monument which is under its guardianship […]
The Department of the Environment is to compile a schedule of historic monuments. Under the 1995 legislation, it was to include monuments designated under the previous 1971 Act and monuments which it later determines to be included under the newer legislation. The Schedule of Monuments may be amended from time to time by the inclusion […]
Countryside management is the responsibility of the Department of the Environment. It is advised by the Nature Council for Nature Conservation in the countryside. It also has regard to representations made by persons engaged in agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and other entities. The Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands NI Order provides for the designation of natural […]
The Access to the Countryside (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 follows similar legislation in the United Kingdom. The legislation dates back to after World War II in the United Kingdom. It sets out broad rights of public access, particularly to hill and mountain areas. A District Council may assert, keep, and protect open, free from obstruction […]