By Paul McElwee
AN investigation is now underway following reports of raw sewage accumulating in the river beneath Lifford Bridge.
The shocking accounts, which describes the spillage as a constant nuisance for anglers as well as a threat to local wildlife, surfaced this week after a concerned angler shared a video of the scene.
The footage shows a white substance flowing from the Lifford side of the bridge, pooling at the riverbank where the Finn and Mourne rivers converge to form the Foyle. The discharge is said to emit a pungent stench, alarming both walkers and anglers in the area.
Mark Logue, who shared the video and who is chairperson of the Strabane/Lifford Anglers Club, says the issue is not new – and anglers have been battling it for years.
“Fishermen have been reporting the sewage for many years, sometimes three or more times a year,” he said. “We have, in turn, been reporting the sewage to both the Rivers and Loughs Agency and, despite promises to investigate and resolve the problem; nothing is yet to be conclusively done.
“You can see the spillage best at the riverbank by Lifford hospital. If you park in the hospital grounds and head towards the river, basically follow your nose, it’s easy found. We don’t know where it’s coming from and I’m not suggesting the hospital is to blame, maybe an old drain or another source, but the sewage and the smell that comes with it is doing untold damage to the river. Ducks and fish are in danger at being poisoned. It’s got to the point where it’s almost impossible for anyone to fish in the river because of the stink and potential dangers.”
Mr Logue added that the only saving grace is that the river is tidal, which helps carry the effluent downstream into the Foyle. However, he admits this simply “kicks the can down the river” and causes further environmental harm elsewhere. Despite efforts to seek support from local TDs, he says the club has yet to gain any traction.
“Something has to be done about this and quick. It wouldn’t be allowed to happen anywhere else.”
Local councillor Raymond Barr also expressed serious concern about the ongoing pollution.
“Someone needs to step up and deal with this situation. The first thing that needs done is to establish exactly where the sewage is coming from and then steps taken to stop it,” said Cllr Barr.
“There’s grave danger to both animals that use the river and to humans who use the river for fishing. Fishermen who catch anything could easily bring some contaminated fish home and get sick as a result. It’s time to get this sorted.”
This newspaper contacted both NI Water and Uisce Éireann in an effort to clarify which agency is responsible for investigating the issue. NI Water stated they had carried out an investigation and found no fault on the northern side of the border. Uisce Éireann, in response, issued a brief statement: “Uisce Éireann is currently investigating the issue.”
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