asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if his attention has been drawn to the high incidence of fish pollution in the river Blackwater; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
45.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fish Mortality.
44.
Mr. Barry
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware of the wholesale deaths of all types of fish life on the stretch of the River Blackwater between Mallow and Fermoy, County Cork over the past few weeks; and, if so, (a) if he has had an examination carried out to ascertain the cause, (b) the result of the examination and (c) what steps he proposes to take to have this very serious situation remedied.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 45 together.
I am aware that heavy kills of fish have occurred recently in the River Blackwater below Mallow, due to the presence of excessive organic matter in the river in abnormally low water conditions.
A survey of the position has been carried out by a scientific officer of my Department. The Lismore Board of Fishery Conservators, who are the responsible authority in the case, are investigating the matter fully. I propose to issue a general statement when I have more complete information.