Fish kill on Quoile sparks fears of further toll on stocks
SDLP South Down MLA Colin McGrath has welcomed news that the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) are investigating the cause of a fish kill in the Quoile River.
The South Down MLA said: “Upon hearing reports that a large number of fish were found dead on the bank of the Quoile River I was really quite horrified.
“This is an area of natural beauty which is growing in popularity and one which I have been working hard to see developed further.
“After learning of the fish kill I made contact with the NIEA who have responsibility for the river.
“They have launched an investigation into the cause of death of these fish.
“I am patiently awaiting the outcome of this investigation as we need to be absolutely certain what has caused such a large scale of deaths here.
“The fish kill that has taken place in the Quoile is a disaster for our local environment and biodiversity.
“There are many other animals and wildlife here that depend on the fish stocks for their own sustainability.
“It is essential that once the cause of the deaths has been identified that our statutory bodies do all within their power to prevent this happening again.
“his is something I will be highlighting with DAERA Minister Edwin Poots in the Assembly,” said Colin McGrath.