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Andrew Muir MLA

@andrewmuirni.bsky.social
752 followers 80 following 33 posts

Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs | Alliance North Down MLA | Email casework andrew.muir@alliancepartyni.org | Member North Down Athletic Club | Founded Crawfordsburn and Bangor parkrun events | 🏳️‍🌈

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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Passivhaus Trust @passivhaustrust.bsky.social · 24/09/2025
"I am delighted that Belfast is hosting the joint UK & Ireland Passivhaus Conference, spotlighting the impressive Passivhaus innovation & upscaling taking place in Northern Ireland, & across the UK and Ireland" @andrewmuirni.bsky.social Join us in Belfast & online: ukphc.org.uk
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Belfast Hills Partnership @belfasthills.bsky.social · 11/09/2025
@daera-ni.gov.uk Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social has committed over £3.2 million to support nature recovery projects through his department’s Environment Fund. @belfasthills.bsky.social are delighted to be among the recipients. Read all about it here: www.daera-ni.gov.uk/news/muir-an...
daera-ni.gov.uk
Muir announces over £3.2 million to support nature recovery projects
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has committed over £3.2 million to support nature recovery projects through his department’s Environment Fund.
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 18/09/2025
Our peatlands have massive potential in combating climate change, improving water quality and reversing biodiversity decline. DAERA Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social has launched his Peatland Strategy to restore these precious habitats.
Image of peatlands.

Text reads: Unleashing the power of our peatlands

+ Storing and capturing carbon
+ Supporting threatened habitats and species
+ Improving water quality
+ Creating green jobs
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 01/07/2025
Run-down and dilapidated buildings are a blight - affecting communities across Northern Ireland, says @andrewmuirni.bsky.social.   That's why Alliance is bringing forward new powers to stop the rot in our cities, towns and villages.
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 17/06/2025
Experts agree that we need an independent Environmental Protection Agency. So do we. @andrewmuirni.bsky.social will be taking forward their final recommendations to the Executive to deliver this long-standing commitment.
Image of nature. Text reads: "We need an Independent Environmental Protection Agency
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Green Alliance @green-alliance.org.uk · 17/06/2025
We welcome the publication of new expert advice which signals major changes to environmental governance in Northern Ireland. Read the report: bit.ly/4eg2oO0 Comment from @ruthchambers.bsky.social, senior fellow ⤵️
On the publication of new advice for environmental governance in Northern Ireland, Ruth Chambers, senior fellow said "Ruth Chambers, senior fellow, Green Alliance, commented:

 

"For nature to recover in Northern Ireland, we need an independent environmental regulator with teeth and targets to meet. This timely report on how to strengthen environmental governance must be finalised and implemented swiftly. But people will then want to see quick action to tackle the water pollution that blights Lough Neagh and address the perilous state of the country’s wildlife."
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 13/06/2025
In today's Belfast Telegraph, Alliance Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social emphasises that if Northern Ireland fails to align its environmental needs with its economic ambitions, the decline of our environment will adversely impact a range of sectors, from farming to tourism. Read more below⤵️
Image of DAERA Minister Andrew Muir's platform piece in the Belfast Telegraph. Titled: “Ambitions for our economy must be in step with care and protection of the environment.”
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 06/06/2025
𝘿𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙥𝙞𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝘽𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 🏘️ 🛠️ @andrewmuirni.bsky.social has announced a bill to tackle dilapidated and dangerous buildings, alongside Nuala McAllister MLA in North Belfast. The bill aims to empower councils to deal with the harmful impact dilapidated buildings have on our community.
Photo of Alliance MLAs Andrew Muir and Nuala McAllister in North Belfast. Text reads: Dilapidation Bill announced. We’re giving councils the power to tackle dilapidated buildings.
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
British Veterinary Association @britishvets.bsky.social · 23/05/2025
Great to see @daera-ni.gov.uk's new #AnimalWelfarePathway for Northern Ireland include plans for mandatory CCTVs in abattoirs, consideration around regulation of canine fertility clinics, & exploring a ban on shock collars, among others. @andrewmuirni.bsky.social www.daera-ni.gov.uk/news/muir-se...
daera-ni.gov.uk
Muir sets out pathway to stronger animal welfare standards
Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, has today published his ambitious 10-point plan to improve animal welfare through a series of impactful reforms.
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 01/06/2025
DAERA Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social has banned single-use vapes, marking another important step for environmental protection ♻ The new ban will reduce the damage caused to our environment by disposable vapes, and help to safeguard the health and well-being of future generations.
Image of single-use vapes in a bin. Text reads: We've banned polluting single-use vapes.
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 03/06/2025
The Nutrients Action Programme is a key part of the Lough Neagh Action Plan💧 Resolving the situation in Lough Neagh requires a joint effort, and by ensuring everyone plays their part, we can make a real difference in protecting the future of our waterways. -@andrewmuirni.bsky.social
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 15/05/2025
Alliance will keep fighting against trade deals that seek to undercut our farmers with cheap imports from the U.S. or elsewhere. @eointennyson.bsky.social & @andrewmuirni.bsky.social outline how we're sticking up for farmers & ensuring it's sustainable for the future at this years #BalmoralShow. 🚜🐮
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 25/04/2025
🚫 There is no place in our society for animal cruelty. 🐶 🐱 That's why Alliance Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social is taking action to make our pets safer.
Image of a puppy running through a field. Text reads: We're protecting pets. We're: Launching an expert-led review of dog breeding establishments.  Driving forward Lucy’s Law – ending third-party puppy & kitten sales.
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 21/04/2025
Very saddened to learn of the passing of Pope Francis. Compassion and leadership he provided will forever be remembered, supporting peace and reconciliation and courageously speaking up on key issues such as climate change, poverty and migration. May he rest in peace
Pope Francis
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 15/04/2025
I am dismayed but sadly not surprised by the return of blue-green algae at Lough Neagh. I have said many times that this problem was decades in the making and will be decades in the fixing. 1/2 www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
Lough Neagh: First case of blue-green algae confirmed in 2025
Blue-green algae has been detected in Lough Neagh at both Traad Point and Kinturk (Curran's Quay).
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 12/04/2025
We need a change in approach to help tackle fires ravaging our countryside. As I informed the Assembly on Monday part of that has to be about the burn period. I intend to review the prescribed burning rules, status quo isn’t an option.
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 08/04/2025
Glad to see Assembly vote to setup Climate Change Commissioner despite opposition from DUP & TUV Northern Ireland is already enduring the harsh reality of Climate Change Those stuck in mode of dither, delay and deny on climate action are on the wrong side of history
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
NICVA @nicva.org · 28/03/2025
🌟 We’re now on Bluesky! 🌟 We're here to connect, support, & champion Northern Ireland’s voluntary & community sector. We’ll be sharing updates, insights, & resources to support the sector. Give us a follow, say hello, and let’s build a strong community here! 💙
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 29/03/2025
Inspirational morning engaging with children and young people on Lough Neagh, climate change and our environment with John Blair MLA Thanks Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People for the invite and organising the event, ably hosted by CAFRE @daera-ni.gov.uk
Andrew Muir MLA & John Blair MLA with young people and Lough Neagh stories organisers
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 09/03/2025
Delighted to host a positive, constructive Net Zero, Energy and Climate Change Inter-ministerial Group in Belfast last week at amazing Belfast Harbour Commission offices Working together East / West and North / South we can achieve so much more
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 08/03/2025
Really wonderful news Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is coming to Belfast in 2026! Well done to all involved in securing this especially Ards Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann This has massive potential benefit not just for Belfast but spin off opportunities including in North Down @connieegan.bsky.social
From left Councillor Gillian McCollum, Connie Egan MLA, Andrew Muir MLA and Councillor Hannah Irwin standing at Belfast City Hall with musicians in the background
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 15/02/2025
I am extremely concerned to learn of significant fish kill at Glenmornan River, Artigarvan with severe ecological impact News over 2,000 dead fish have so far been discovered including 500 European Eels plus 20 dead frogs is absolutely devastating More at www.loughs-agency.org/newsroom/sta...
loughs-agency.org
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 01/02/2025
Economic growth must not come to the cost of our environment, a matter I raised with DEFRA Secretary Steve Reed MP earlier this week. We must learn lessons from the past, Lough Neagh being a glaring example
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Charlie Lynch @charlielynch.bsky.social · 28/01/2025
Founding Cara-Friend. Exhibition celebrating 50 years of one N.Ireland’s oldest LGBT+ charities, with photography of veteran activists by Tim O’Connell, accompanied by heritage display. Linenhall, Belfast, Feb 3-28.
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Alliance Youth NI @allianceyouthni.bsky.social · 28/01/2025
Alliance DAERA Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social has launched the new Nature Recovery Challenge Fund The first-of-its-kind fund will offer grants to projects that increase habitats, protect our environment and help restore biodiversity. 🌿 @allianceparty.bsky.social
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 26/01/2025
The on-going impact of Storm Éowyn upon rural communities across Northern Ireland is significant I greatly appreciate efforts by NIE Networks to restore connections with Storm Herminia today adding to the challenges of getting power back on 1/2
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 24/01/2025
Many thanks to everyone responding to the savage impact of Storm Éowyn, especially our farmers helping to clear roads whilst tending to livestock in very difficult conditions The damage caused is very significant with rural communities badly affected 1/2
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Dr Adam Mellor @adam-oceans.bsky.social · 22/01/2025
Lovely to have our @andrewmuirni.bsky.social Minister for the Environment to name the new @daera-ni.gov.uk survey vessel with the wonderful family and friends of our late colleague, the brilliant Joe Breen!
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 17/01/2025
I have decided to introduce an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone across NI All flock keepers should take immediate action on biosecurity and good farm practice to reduce the risk of incursion of avian influenza into the Northern Ireland poultry flock More at www.daera-ni.gov.uk/news/avian-i...
Graphic stating protect your flock, take action now
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 15/01/2025
Delighted to see commitment secured in new Irish Government PfG under Shared Island to “Develop an all-island plan to improve water basin management, water quality and nature restoration” Looking forward to working with my new counterparts to deliver, especially for Lough Neagh
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Cllr Micky Murray @micky-murray.bsky.social · 14/01/2025
This evening my friend @fionamcateer.bsky.social was sworn in as the High Sheriff of Belfast, joining the chain gang! I had the honour of presenting Fiona with the chain, surrounded by her family and friends, and I’m really looking forward to working with her in our civic roles this year.
A picture of me with Cllr Fiona McAteer, High Sheriff of Belfast
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Food, Farming and Countryside Commission @ffc-commission.bsky.social · 10/01/2025
Following Steve Reed's address at #OFC25 yesterday, good to see ministers from the devolved nations, @andrewmuirni.bsky.social @huwirrancadaviesms.bsky.social @jimfairliesnp.bsky.social, discuss the challenges together – a real step change in the opportunity & quality of inter-country dialogue...
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Reposted by Andrew Muir MLA
Paula Bradshaw MLA @paulaballiance.bsky.social · 06/01/2025
The public consultation on my Private Member’s Bill on the Display of Flags & Emblems is now live here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/emblemsbill More information here: www.allianceparty.org/flags_and_em...
surveymonkey.com
Display of Flags and Emblems Bill
Take this survey powered by surveymonkey.com. Create your own surveys for free.
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 06/01/2025
Flags symbolise our heritage and identity, but they can also be used to sow division, mark territory and instil fear. That's why Paula Bradshaw has launched a consultation on her bill to change how we display flags in public spaces. Make your voice heard. www.allianceparty.org/flags_and_em...
Picture of Union Jack and Irish Tricolour flags on a lamppost. 

Text reads: Flags and Emblems Bill consultation open. Make your voice heard! Text reads: 1. Set out the rules and guidelines. – Establish a regulatory framework for the display of emblems (including on flags, banners and posters) on lamp posts and other street furniture.Text reads: Determine who takes them down. – Clarify whose responsibility it is to remove emblems displayed unlawfully, including paramilitary flags and posters expressing racial hatred.
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 24/12/2024
Great to take part in legendary Helen’s Bay Christmas Eve swim, raising funds for Marie Curie and PIPS Charity Big thank you to the organisers and both Mark Simpson and Councillor Gillian McCollum for persuading me to take the plunge! 🎄
Andrew Muir in water Andrew Muir and Mark Simpson in water with swimmers in background Andrew and Gillian coming out of the water
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 14/12/2024
Animal welfare is a top priority, I’m determined to achieve higher standards for NI. As well as extending Lucy's Law here, I am seeking to commission a comprehensive expert-led review of dog breeding licensing including canine fertility services www.daera-ni.gov.uk/news/strengt...
Graphic with cats and dogs entitled We're protecting animals
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 12/12/2024
Alliance DAERA Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social has announced prioritisation of a range of policies aimed at reforming and strengthening animal welfare in Northern Ireland. Read more: www.allianceparty.org/strengthenin...
allianceparty.org
Strengthening animal welfare a top priority, says Muir.
Strengthening animal welfare a top priority, says Muir.
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 11/12/2024
Proud to have set Northern Ireland's first three Carbon Budgets, ensuring we are on the road to Net Zero by 2050. Decarbonisation ensures we do our part for the planet and benefit from the economic opportunities that come from a just transition.
Graphic detailing targets in each carbon budget leading to Net Zero by 2050
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 10/12/2024
Proud to have set Northern Ireland's first three Carbon Budgets, ensuring we are on the road to Net Zero by 2050. Decarbonisation ensures we do our part for the planet and benefit from the economic opportunities that come from a just transition.
Andrew Muir MLA speaking in NI Assembly
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 09/12/2024
Glad to work with NI SPACE and UK Space Agency on this additional initiative to help improve detection and monitoring of blue green algae in Lough Neagh More at bit.ly/3D9JERS www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
Companies selected to monitor Lough Neagh green algae from space
Firms will get a share of £360,000 to develop technology to target blue-green algae in waterways.
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 08/12/2024
Proud to have the opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland at recent British-Irish Council meeting making the the case for a Green New Deal to unlock many opportunities and deliver good green jobs as part of Just Transition to Net Zero
Group photo at Dalmahoy Hotel & Country ClubAndrew Muir MLA engaging with Scottish First Minister John Swinney MSP and Economy Minister Conor Murphy MLAGraphic starting Scotland hosts the 42nd British-Irish Council Edinburgh 5-6 December
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 07/12/2024
Thanks to everyone for sustained response to Storm Darragh in extremely challenging circumstances especially DAERA, NIEA & Forest Service staff plus many farmers across Northern Ireland yet again going above and beyond to help others #StormDarragh
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 05/12/2024
So-called conversion practices have no place in any modern society. Today, @eointennyson.bsky.social has launched a consultation on proposals to ban these cruel and archaic practices. Make your voice heard.👇 www.allianceparty.org/banning_conv...
Graphic of stop symbols in pride colours.

Text reads: "BAN CONVERSION THERAPY"
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Eóin Tennyson @eointennyson.bsky.social · 05/12/2024
So-called conversion practices are torture, not treatment. These cruel practices have no place in society. No one should face harm because of who they are or who they love. Today, I’m launching a consultation on proposals to ban them.👇 www.allianceparty.org/banning_conv...
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 03/12/2024
I am always happy to help constituents in North Down! Please contact me via details below: 📍 33 Church Road, Holywood, BT18 9BU 📧 andrew.muir@alliancepartyni.org 📞 028 9544 2944 Promoted by Andrew Muir MLA, Alliance HQ, 7 Farmley Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 7TY
Picture of Andrew Muir with contact details and Constituency Office sign in the background
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 01/12/2024
Valuable engagement last week with Church Leaders to discuss Lough Neagh and our common commitment to the stewardship of our environment with a number of practical actions agreed as follow up
Photo with the leaders of local churches (L-R)
Trevor Gribben Moderator of the Presbyterian Church In Ireland, Bishop Sarah Groves - President of the Irish Council of churches, •	The Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland: Most Reverend John McDowell and Roman Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland: Most Rev Eamon Martin.
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 01/12/2024
Christmas lights switch on in Holywood yesterday with Cllr Gillian McCollum & Cllr Martin McRandal complete with Santa hat! 🧑‍🎄
Councillor Martin McRandal, Councillor Gillian McCollum and Andrew Muir MLA wearing Santa hatsChristmas Tree in Holywood with crowd besideMayor switching on Christmas lights in Holywood
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 28/11/2024
It’s shameful that other parties have voted against Alliance’s plan to increase penalties for polluters. Our proposal would’ve reversed the DUP’s cap on cross-compliance penalties. Only Alliance is committed to protecting our environment and Lough Neagh.
Image of blue-green algae in Lough Neagh.

Text reads: "Sinn Féin, DUP, SDLP & UUP vote against our plans to increase penalties for polluters."
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Alliance Party @allianceparty.bsky.social · 26/11/2024
We’re prioritising animal welfare. Alliance Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister @andrewmuirni.bsky.social is advancing several measures, including regulation of the third-party sale of pets, to better protect our animals. 🐶🐈
Image of puppies and kittens.

Text reads: "We're protecting animals"

"We're:
• Banning the use of shock collars
• Banning third-party sales of puppies & kittens
• Compulsory microchipping of cats"
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Andrew Muir MLA @andrewmuirni.bsky.social · 25/11/2024
Thank you to Jubilee Farm for welcoming me on Saturday, fantastic community farm near Larne where I learnt lots more about soil health and more! 🐑 🐓 🌱
Soil health digSheepChickens
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