Vol. 493 No. 3
149 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the improvements, if any, documented in terms of water quality and proliferation of algal bloom in Lough Leane, Glenflesk Valley, near Killarney, County Kerry, in the period since the establishment of a multi-sectoral committee to examine these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16055/98]
The multisectoral strategic approach to tackling water quality problems in Lough Leane and the Killarney lakes generally is primarily a matter for my colleague, the Minister for the Environment and Local Government, with my full support and closely involves the South Western Regional Fisheries Board to ensure that the fisheries perspective is taken into account. The manager of the South Western Regional Fisheries Board is a member of the Lough Leane Working Group and has advised that comprehensive sampling of the water quality is continuing. Analysis is not yet complete and it would be premature to draw any conclusions.
I have consistently stressed that education and awareness are vital to pollution prevention and in this regard a programme of farm visits and surveys is being undertaken by Kerry County Council and the South Western Regional Fisheries Board. In addition a phosphate usage awareness week was organised in the area earlier this year and was very well received. Consultants have been appointed by the Minister for the Environment and Local Government to comprehensively analysis and report on the particular water quality problems associated with the catchment and they are expected to report next year.
