Debate contribution: Lithium Ion Batteries
Debate contribution by Mr Andrew Muir on .
- MLA
- Mr Andrew Muir
- Party at the time
- Alliance Party
- Date
- 28 September 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution (made as a minister)
- Business
- Oral Answers to Questions
- Heading
- Lithium Ion Batteries
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5762287
Read the official Assembly record
Text
Waste management authorisations require operators to manage waste in a manner that protects human health and the environment. Authorisation conditions include requirements relating to fire prevention, waste storage and operational controls proportionate to the risks posed by the waste being handled. I recognise the increasing challenges associated with lithium ion batteries and the fire risks that they present in the waste management sector. My Department is actively considering whether the relevant regulatory arrangements require review. In light of recent incidents, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is actively considering whether measures need to be strengthened to ensure the detection, segregation and safe handling of lithium ion batteries before waste enters processing or storage areas. NIEA also continues to engage with individual operators on a risk-based basis to ensure that appropriate controls are in place and that emerging risks are identified and addressed at an early stage.
146 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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