To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) what cross-departmental arrangements are in place to ensure a joined-up response to algal blooms impacting East Londonderry; and (ii) what actions have been taken, or plan to be taken, to limit future algal blooms.

The Interagency Blue Green Algae Monitoring Protocol has been developed and is being implemented operationally for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. My Department’s Interagency Protocol groups are currently established and are responding to reports of blue-green algae. Guidance is available in the Interagency Protocol which can be accessed at: www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/inter-agency-blue-green-algae-monitoring-protocol

The Lough Neagh Report and Action Plan, agreed by the Executive in July 2024, contains science led actions to tackle the blue-green algae blooms in Lough Neagh and secure longer-term improvements in water quality across Northern Ireland. Of the 37 actions included in the plan, 14 have been completed, 22 are currently underway, and one is pending due to its reliance on another action being implemented.

I remain fully committed to driving forward implementation of the Action Plan, working closely with other Departments, particularly the Department of Infrastructure and the Department of Justice, where their input is required.