asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the tourist industry centered on inland fishing in the area of Lough Sheelin, County Cavan, is now at serious risk as a result of the continued pollution of the lake; the proposals, if any, he has to take action to reverse the present disastrous situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Lough Sheelin (County Cavan) Pollution.
203.
I am aware that the condition of the lake has deteriorated and of the possible implications of this. The problem in the lake has historically been associated with the spreading of pig slurry and there is little doubt that this has been the major source of the nutrient load entering the lake and the adjoining streams.
The Lough Sheelin Management Committee is at present finalising slurry management plans for the major pig producers in the catchment. These plans will quantify the extent of the problem and will determine where and when slurry spreading can take place, as well as the rate of application of slurry at any one time. The committee has to date received a high degree of co-operation from producers in this task. Cavan County Council, which is the statutory authority for water pollution control in the area, recently issued notices to pig producers under Section 12 of the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977 banning spreading during November, December and January of the coming winter and restricting it during this month and next February.
The local authority has also used its powers under the 1977 Act to require an industrial plant in the catchment to install phosphorous removal facilities in its effluent treatment plant. This will have the effect of further reducing the phosphorous input to the lake.
Cavan County Council are investigating other point and non-point discharges which could be having an effect on the condition of the lake with a view to taking appropriate remedial action if necessary.
The need for further action in relation to the Lough Sheelin catchment and similar areas is being considered by the Cabinet Committee on Water Pollution which has been meeting under my chairmanship.