Pollution Threat Hits Six Mile Water Anglers

Fishing is out-of-bounds this week as apparent pollution on a scenic stretch of river in Co Antrim is investigated.

Michael Martin, of the Six Mile Water Trust, Antrim & District Angling Association, said today that their advice to anglers is to stay away from the Six Mile Water river (pictured prior to the problems at a tributary in Dunadry) following the discovery of what appears to be sewage fungus coming down the river.

"The material which is light coloured and resembles what one member described as rotting flesh was first discovered last Tuesday but the source was not discovered until Friday due to problems with access because of the work on the motorway bridge at Templepatrick," he said.

"Our own investigations have found an absence of the material above Ballyclare Sewage facility but a heavy accumulation immediately below," he noted, pointedly.

The Glengormley fishing enthusiast said that the NI Environment Agency is investigating at present and may soon be able to give an accurate description of the material.

"In the meantime we suspect that it may be sewage fungus and as such may pose a health hazard.

"It is particularly unfortunate that the incident has happened at this time of year because with over-enrichment from sewage and agricultural sources, and very low flows, the river already has problems with algae and blanket weed which suffocate any of the beneficial plants which provide oxygen, cover and habitat for invertebrate and fish populations.

"The material coming down at the moment is accumulating in the slow pools and decomposing so, who knows what damage could be caused," he continued noting that the Six Mile Water River Trust and Antrim Anglers members have been working hard with the various government agencies to improve conditions on the river and improve facilities for groups such as schoolchildren , canoeists, walkers etc. and of course benefit the wildlife itself.

"It is disappointing to see incidents like this continue to destroy the beautiful river habitat that exists.

"In the meantime we would have to advise river users not to come near the river in case there might be a virus hazard or similar and hopefully the Environment Agency can resolve the problem in the near future."

See: NI Water Appeals Pollution Fine

(BMcC/GK)