Loughs Agency carries out inspections following Foyle pollution concerns

The Loughs Agency has carried out inspections at the scene of an alleged incident of pollution emanating from close to a housing estate in Quigley’s Point.
The agency was alerted to the issue at the West Point Manor estate on the shores of Lough Foyle, which is a special protection area due to its internationally and nationally important numbers of birdlife. The lough also supports one of the last remaining populations of European native oysters.
The inspections were carried out after locals raised concerns about pollution and a foul odour which appear to be coming from a septic tank at the estate.
In a statement to the Inish Times, the agency said it is “aware of a sewage treatment issue” at the estate.
“We have been liaising with Donegal County Council to determine the next steps on how the council intends to deal with this issue, and hope to have further information available soon.”
Local councillor Terry Crossan said concerns have been raised about the impact of the emissions which are entering a local stream that flows into the lough.

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The Sinn Féin councillor said there is a build-up of sludge at the location and the issue has been ongoing for a number of years.
“No one is taking responsibility. Donegal County Council isn’t taking responsibility," he said.
“It’s a mess and it needs to be addressed as it is going on for too long. Ultimately, the Loughs Agency is responsible for anything that would relate to pollution. The Loughs Agency should be making sure Donegal County Council takes responsibility and addresses it.”