Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 February 2010
212 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on whether the Owengar River habitat was destroyed on foot of the Natural Heritage Area (Corry Mountain Bog NHA 002321) Order 2005; his plans to restore the river ecosystem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8457/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that during the development work associated with the construction of a wind farm a major peat slide occurred in September 2008, which inundated the Owengar River with peat. This impacted the river down to its confluence with and into Lough Allen. I am advised by the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board that damage to the entire habitat was caused, however, I am informed that no part of the Corry Mountain Bog NHA (Ref 002321) was affected by the peat slide.
Last week Garvagh Glebe Power Limited., a consortium of the ESB and Coillte, was successfully prosecuted for causing pollution of the Owengar River in County Leitrim, contrary to Section 171 of the Fisheries Act. In his judgement the Judge requested that a rehabilitation plan be put in place which will fully addresses all issues into the future and provide a "roadmap for the restoration of the river". I understand that Garvagh Glebe Power Limited has committed to progress the required plan as soon as possible and I welcome this approach. The Fisheries Board will work with Garvagh Glebe Power Ltd in the formulation of the plan which should see the restoration take place over a five year period.
