Seal Deaths in Strangford Lough
A number of seals have been found dead in Strangford Lough.
Strangford DUP MP Jim Shannon has expressed deep concern over the death of 4-5 seals close to the Kircubbin Yacht club.
He said: “Some years ago, there had been several seal deaths in Strangford Lough which resulted in the seal population being reduced by a significant amount.
“However, the seal population has since maintained or indeed exceeded the numbers previously in Strangford Lough.
“Residents in Kircubbin and those who visit Kircubbin, have notified me of the recent seal deaths.
“I have therefore contacted Ards and North Down Borough Council and Edwin Poots as DAERA Minister as it is imperative that action is taken to remove the dead seals as a matter of public health.
“It is also crucial immediate steps are taken to preserve what is left of the seal population in Strangford Lough.
“This was done previously, and it can be done again. Strangford is a renowned UK location for seals, and they are very much part of the tourist potential due to their iconic nature.
“Action is needed by DAERA and our local Council to ensure that the seals in Strangford Lough continue to be the feature that they clearly are.”