Campaigners hold "wake" for Lough Neagh

Environmental campaigners held a "wake" for Lough Neagh at the weekend amidst the ongoing crisis at the Lough as it remains polluted by toxic algae.

Activists from campaign groups Love our Lough, Surfers Against Sewage and Friends of the Earth dressed in black and carried a makeshift coffin to the shore of the County Derry lough on Sunday afternoon (September 17).

The event was held to highlight the ecological magnitude of the situation at the lough.

Lough Neagh is the UK and Ireland’s largest freshwater lake and supplies half of Belfast's drinking water and 40% of Northern Ireland's overall.

Over the past few months, blue-green algae linked to a nutrient overload has been sighted on the surface of the water.

Pollution from farming and NI Water are also said to be major contributing factors along with increased temperatures and sunlight.

The presence of the blue-green algae in the water has contributed to an environmental disaster at the lough.

Campaign group, Love our Lough, said the wake was an "emotional day" as they hope the "enormity of the situation" is now recognised.

They said: "Words cannot express our gratitude for each and everyone of you that attended the wake today and for those that sent their good wishes.

"Today was an emotional day as we all came together to respect, cherish and pay our respects and realise the enormity of the situation our beautiful lough is in.

"As I spoke to so many of you, your anger, upset and frustration was clear to see but together I believe we can get change and help help our lough needs.

"We had so much help from other groups and individuals it’s impossible to thank everyone but believe we see you.

"A special mention to our own Dr Lou Taylor who founded Love Our Lough-without you this would never have been possible.

"Now to keep the momentum going."

First Minister Designate Michelle O’Neill has said an urgent action plan needs to be developed immediately to tackle the serious issue of toxic algae in Lough Neagh which is causing serious public concern.

The Mid Ulster MLA said that Lough Neagh should be brought into public ownership and a long-term plan developed to keep the lough safe.

Michelle O’Neill said: “Sinn Féin has long advocated for Lough Neagh to be brought into public ownership.
 
“Lough Neagh provides 40% of the north’s drinking water and contributes greatly to the fishing industry and the environment.

“An urgent action plan needs to be developed immediately to tackle the serious issue of toxic algae in Lough Neagh and the surrounding area and its impact on water quality and the local environment, which is causing serious public concern.

“Sinn Féin will continue to meet with the relevant agencies this week to ensure urgent action to tackle the current crisis in Lough Neagh in a coordinated and effective manner.

“Lough Neagh is a huge asset for all the communities who live close to its shores and it has so much untapped potential.

“It should be brought under public ownership so that a clear management structure can be developed and long-term plans developed to keep the lough safe and sustainable for future generations.”

Sinn Féin Councillor Sean Bateson echoed Ms O'Neill and welcomed the passing of a motion on Causeway Coast and Glens Council calling for an action plan on toxic algae.

Councillor Bateson said: “I welcome the passing of a motion on Causeway Coast and Glens Council calling for an action plan on toxic algae.

“The motion is calling on the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to swiftly convene a cross party meeting between affected Council areas involving all the relevant departments and agencies with responsibilities.

“And for the NI Environment Agency to present to Causeway Coast and Glens council on its actions to respond to the occurrences of toxic algae.  

“Toxic algae in both the River Bann and the sea off the north coast at Castlerock, Portstewart, Benone and Portrush is deeply concerning from an environmental perspective.

“It has occurred over the summer months which is the busiest time of the year for tourism, which is when many local businesses make the most of their annual income, and therefore has had a detrimental impact on local businesses.

“The instances of toxic algae in numerous locations this summer highlights the need for urgent action on water quality.

“It is important that this is taken forward as a priority to tackle the current crisis.”

Commenting on the environmental disaster at the lough, a DAERA spokesperson said: “The situation in Lough Neagh is extremely concerning and the department recognises how serious it is. The increase in blue green algae blooms is a result of excess nutrients from agricultural and wastewater systems, combined with climate change and the associated weather patterns. This has been exacerbated due to the presence of zebra mussels and the impact they have on the ecological balance in the Lough.

“The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is fully committed to protecting our environment and working with partners and stakeholders to find short and long term solutions to the very complex and challenging issues evident in the increase in blue green algae.

“A range of urgent actions are underway in DAERA to consider how to deal with this issue in both the short and long term. The reality though is that the deterioration of the water quality in Lough Neagh and other waterways has occurred over many years and it will take time and considerable effort and investment to deliver the improvements that everyone wants to see. Everyone has to play their part to ensure that we do all in our power to protect our natural assets.”