NIS Competent Authority - About us

The Department of Finance (DoF) is designated as the Network and Information Systems (NIS) Competent Authority for Operators of Essential Services in the energy (electricity, gas and oil), transport (road and rail), drinking water supply and distribution and health sectors in Northern Ireland, with the responsibility for development of policy, oversight and enforcement of the NIS Regulations.

The Competent Authority has two main functions; (i) compliance & enforcement, and (ii) new policy and legislation.

• The Compliance & Enforcement team are responsible for oversight and implementing the NIS regulatory function, issuing guidance and assessment of operators of essential services against the NIS regulations and where necessary undertaking enforcement activities.
• The Policy & Legislation unit is responsible for evaluating the implications of new Westminster legislation and providing relevant information to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology as the UK Department leading on this work; and ensuring appropriate application of the Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018.

This website will provide information on the current NIS Regulations in Northern Ireland, how these are implemented, provide advice and guidance for Operators of Essential Services and assist them in understanding their obligations under the regulations.

The website will also provide updates on the progress of any new NIS legislation or policy being developed within the UK.