NIEA investigates major fish kill near Dundrum Bay
Date published:
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is currently investigating a major fish kill at Carrig River, Newcastle, following a significant pollution incident.
NIEA pollution team has been on site investigating the incident and source of the pollution, since it was reported via the NIEA Pollution Hotline on Saturday, 8th October.
A spokesperson for DAERA said: “NIEA staff immediately went to the scene and, assisted by DAERA Inland Fisheries staff, conducted a detailed investigation. The source was traced to premises where it was discovered that a chemical had escaped into the river causing significant pollution.
“Statutory water samples were collected and evidence gathered with a view to an enforcement action. To date the number of dead fish is in excess of 1,600.
“All relevant authorities have been notified, including local council environmental health as Dundrum Bay is a significant shellfish production area. The investigation is ongoing including measures to clean up the spilled material.”
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