The implementation of the 'River Basin Management Plans' takes place from 2010 to 2015.
The Minister explained: "We rely on our water environment not only for drinking water but also recreation, industry, tourism and agriculture. As our waters are home to over 50% of our plants, animals and habitats, the quality is vitally important."
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The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) Water Management Unit will actively work with a range of stakeholders in each river basin area across Northern Ireland to develop focused plans to improve the quality of our water.
The Minister explained: "I have worked with my Executive colleagues to bring forward an ambitious, though balanced, programme of measures to improve the management and quality of our rivers, lakes, marine waters and groundwater," added Mr Poots.
"Using river basin planning, we will take an integrated approach to the protection, improvement and sustainable use of the water environment, from source to sea. I look forward to reviewing the success of these measures throughout the 2010 - 2015 period."
(NS/GK)
