OVER the past year, there has been over 130 recorded incidents of pollution in the rivers and waterways of the Fermanagh and South Tyrone area.
The pollution of the waterways around the county could have a devastating impact on the wildlife and tourism in the area.
Answering a written question asked by local SDLP MLA Richie Mc Philips, Environment Minister, Michelle McIlveen released the figures showing the number of incidents that occured in the Fermanagh and South Tyrone area.
“Despite numerous public campaigns and advice given by the Environment Agency, the fact that pollution incidents have not decreased is a major issue of concern. These incidents pose significant risks to our local environment, including our local wildlife,” said Mr McPhilips.
“The Fermanagh area is heavily reliant on both agriculture and the tourism sector and it is concerning what impact pollution incidents are having on these. I have asked the Minister to further detail where these incidents are occurring and whether those responsible have been reprimanded,” said MLA Richie McPhilips.
In the past five years, there has been 656 cases of pollution in the area, and Mr McPhilips has called for the relevant authorities to take action against the offenders.
“The Environment Agency needs to set an example to deter future offenders but in order to do so, it needs to be bolstered locally to ensure that incidents of pollution are acted upon immediately following a report from the public or as a result of an inspection.
“The Agriculture Minister and the Executive also need to actively address this issue locally. They need to target individuals and businesses who are indiscriminately polluting our waterways,” concluded Mr McPhilips.
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