DAERA publishes response to consultation on draft Air Quality Regulations
Date published:
DAERA has today published a synopsis of responses to its consultation on proposals to strengthen Northern Ireland’s legal air quality standards for particulate matter, helping to further protect public health and support cleaner air.
The 12-week public consultation on the draft Air Quality (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026, which closed on 31 August 2026, proposed tighter annual average limits, targets and objectives for particulate matter.
Tighter controls on particulate matter are intended to support related actions and targets in the draft Clean Air Strategy and draft Climate Action Plan.
Particulate matter (contained in fumes or smoke) can be harmful to human health, with certain kinds acting as a direct respiratory irritant, and others increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Analysis of the consultation responses shows broad support for the proposals, with the majority of respondents agreeing that tighter particulate matter standards should be introduced.
Commenting on the consultation responses, Minister Muir said: “Strengthening Northern Ireland's legal air quality standards will bring us in line with tightening air quality standards across the UK and align with more up-to-date international guidance. These measures will help improve air quality, protect public health and create a cleaner, healthier environment for current and future generations.
"I am pleased that recent monitoring indicates these targets are achievable, with most monitoring sites already meeting the proposed limits. The new regulations will also support delivery of the draft Clean Air Strategy, which is currently out for consultation and complement wider environmental and climate action commitments.”
Subject to Assembly approval, the Regulations will be introduced later in 2026 and will establish updated particulate matter standards that reflect the latest evidence on air quality and health impacts.
The synopsis of responses is available on the DAERA website at: Consultation on the Draft Air Quality (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2026
Notes to editors:
- Consultation opened on 8th June and closed on 31 August 2026.
- The Regulations amend existing air quality legislation in Northern Ireland.
- According to the Air Quality Expert Group (AQEG), Particulate matter (PM) is the term used to describe condensed phase (solid or liquid) particles suspended in the atmosphere (3). It comprises primary components (directly emitted) and secondary components (formed in the atmosphere). PM derives from both anthropogenic (such as fuel combustion and transport) and natural sources (such as sea spray and Saharan dust).
- The measures relate to particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM10).
- PM10 are particles with a diameter less than 10 μg and PM2.5 are fine particles less than 2.5 μg.
- The draft Regulations have previously been cleared by the AERA Committee, subject to scrutiny by the Examiner of Statutory Rules, and are to be laid before the assembly by negative resolution by 11th December at the latest.
- Follow DAERA on X formerly called Twitter and Facebook.
- All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office: pressoffice.group@daera-ni.gov.uk or telephone: 028 9016 3460.
- The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours’ service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.