McGrath hosts a meeting between Loughinisland Lake anglers and NI Water over sewage leaking fears
South Down SDLP MLA Colin McGrath has hosted a meeting between the NI Water area management team and the Downpatrick & District Angling Association.
The South Down MLA said: “Having met with the local anglers over the last number of months to address deficiencies at Loughinisland Lake, I was delighted to host a meeting between them and NI Water’s area management team.
“We addressed the anglers’ concerns and to identified solutions to these issues.
“Loughinisland Lake is a truly exceptional location with stunning views and a terrific stock of brown and rainbow trout.
“This did not happen overnight, but rather it is in many respects the result of the work of the local angling club over a number of years.
“There has been concern among anglers about the wastewater treatment works and the impact this is having on the lake.
“Therefore, it was important for me to bring the statutory agency and the community together to discuss their concerns.
“With over 30 anglers in attendance, NI Water were able to hear a range of concerns around the treated effluent which is finding its way into the lake.
“While it was welcome that the works were upgraded in 2015, the hangover from that time is still being felt with solid materials appearing in the lake from time to time.
“It is evident that there is an ongoing issue between NI Water who are responsible for the works, and NIEA who are responsible for setting the policy on standards and levels of effluence.”
Colin McGHrath added: “Therefore, there is work which now needs to take place with NIEA and I am now commencing these representations, and will bring this to the attention of the DAERA Minister Andrew Muir MLA if required.
“This local angling association has done tremendous work in our local community over many decades.
“It is essential that the government is seen to be working for them, and I will ensure that that happens.”
