To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what assessment he has made of the potential merit in introducing a ban on the sale of peat compost to gardeners.

My Department recently consulted on a Draft Peatland Strategy for Northern Ireland which contains a proposed action to “phase out the use, import and sale of peat compost by 2025”. I am currently considering the results of this consultation exercise and I hope to publish an agreed Peatland Strategy in 2022.

In managing any transition away from the use of peat products, DAERA will need to take into account the effect which such action would have on both the horticultural industry and leisure gardeners. We are also supporting research at CAFRE into viable alternative and sustainable peat products.

My officials also liaise closely with DEFRA and other devolved administrations relating to all issues relating to peat policy across the UK.