The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has published its formal response to an independent review of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), with Minister Andrew Muir confirming that no immediate structural changes will be made to the research body.

The review, carried out by independent consultants and received by the department in February 2025, examined AFBI’s effectiveness, governance and delivery. Its publication was delayed by issues within AFBI that the minister outlined in an Assembly statement on 14 April 2026.

In the departmental response, Muir said his department and AFBI are working collaboratively on an action plan arising from the review. He stressed the importance of robust science and evidence for agri-food, animal and plant health, climate change, and water and air quality.

The minister confirmed he had decided against progressing a recommendation for wholesale structural change at this time, citing potential disruption. Instead, efforts will concentrate on implementing the review’s other recommendations.

The response accepts recommendations on governance and accountability, improving partnership working, and ensuring AFBI delivers high quality science to support policy. Muir said continued cooperation would ensure progress is monitored with clear accountability.

The full Departmental Response to the AFBI Review is available on the DAERA website.