Concerns raised over blue-green algae at Portna, Lower Bann, and Kilrea

In a post on Facebook, Causeway Coast and Glens Council said they have been made aware that blue-green algae has been confirmed at Portna, Lower Bann, Kilrea, you should not enter the water as a precautionary measure.

Pet owners should also ensure that their animals do not have access to this water, dogs should be kept on a lead and away from the water.

At this stage, blue-green algae has not been confirmed in any other locations within the Borough.

East Derry SDLP MLA Cara Hunter has called for immediate action on the Blue-Green algae.

Ms Hunter said “The appearance of blue-green algae in the lower Bann at Portna, Kilrea is a deeply alarming sight that requires immediate action. I have written to the minister and DAERA today to establish the cause for this toxic substance and have asked for urgent action to be taken by the department to ensure our waters are clean.”

“I’m appealing to the public to be mindful of their pets if they are in the area, and to make sure that dogs in particular stay away from the water as we know from similar incidents that this has been fatal for animals.”

“Like Lough Neagh, the appearance of this algae in the Bann is another indictment on the our management of our environment. The public deserves to enjoy a rich, thriving and healthy natural environment and the sight of toxic algae in the Bann impels politicians to act. As elected representatives, we have a responsibility to ensure that nature is safeguarded and to uphold the integrity and of our rivers, lakes and shores.”

“I will continue to work to ensure that the Bann receives the imminent attention required and hope that DAERA will be forthcoming on the cause for this pollution. Northern Ireland is already the 14 th worst place in the world for biodiversity and it is of vital importance that we work to reverse this trend and develop a healthy, thriving environment.”

For further information or if you suspect you have seen these algae, please contact the Northern Ireland Environment Agency using their reporting app.

For more information visit: https://bit.ly/4eV5ZRu