The Environmental Protection Agency report, Water Quality in Ireland 1998-2000, presents an overview of the quality status of the State's surface and groundwaters for the period under review. The report states that of the 164 lakes examined in the west, 158 were classified as oligotrophic or mesotrophic while the remaining six showed signs of nutrient enrichment. In this classification Lough Cullen is oligotrophic and Loughs Mask, Carra and Conn are mesotrophic. In relation to the latter three lakes the report notes that fluctuations in angling returns and excessive growths of shoreline plants and algae have suggested unsatisfactory levels of localised enrichment and led to widespread concern about their future welfare. However, the quality of the open waters of these lakes is consistent with mesotrophic or satisfactory conditions.
I will ask the Western Regional Fisheries Board and the North-Western Regional Fisheries Board to communicate directly with the Deputy in relation to the fishing water quality of the lakes and rivers mentioned.