asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will consider appointing an independent environmental protection agency for Northern Ireland in order to ensure more effective preservation of the region's natural environment. [HL426]

On 28 February 2006 an independent review of environmental governance in Northern Ireland was launched. The review will bring forward proposals for future environmental governance arrangements, in relation to environmental protection, the natural heritage and the built heritage.

An interim report of the panel’s findings was published on 29 September 2006 and, following further research and public consultation, it will publish its final report by the end of March 2007.