To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for a breakdown of the budget allocated to deliver the Northern Ireland Peatland Strategy 2021-2040.

I recently launched a twelve week public consultation on the Draft Northern Ireland Peatland Strategy 2021-2040 (available at https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/consultations/ni-peatland-strategy-consultation). This draft Strategy document has been developed by my Department, and outlines 6 Strategic Objectives and a number of associated actions. It does not set out policy options or indicate a particular policy position at this stage.

As recommendations and public views are sought through the public consultation process, any comment from me at this stage may influence the view of respondents and I do not wish to pre-empt the outcome of this process. I would, however, like to encourage you to formally respond to these and any other questions you may have a viewpoint on, by submitting a response to the consultation. This will ensure your important comments, are captured as part of the final assessment. All comments will be welcome and will strengthen consultation process. I intend to seek Executive approval before publishing an agreed Northern Ireland Peatland Strategy.