An investigation into pollution affecting Armagh’s Folly River is continuing after dead fish were discovered along its banks and a strong chemical smell was reported.
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) confirmed that inspectors are investigating the incident on the Ballynahone River, also known as the Folly River, in County Armagh. A member of the public contacted Armagh I after finding several dead fish. The person, who wished to remain anonymous, estimated that around 50 fish may have died.
Armagh I contacted the NIEA following the report. The agency said it received information about the pollution incident on Sunday, November 1, and that an inspector attended the area that day to assess what had happened and consider its potential environmental impact.
Investigation continues to identify pollution source
According to the NIEA, investigations continued on the Monday and Tuesday and were due to continue on Wednesday, November 4. The work is focused on identifying the source of the pollution and assessing the impact on the river environment.
A spokesperson for the agency said: “The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is investigating a pollution incident affecting the Ballynahone River, also known as the Folly River, in County Armagh.”
The spokesperson added: “The NIEA received a report from a member of the public on Sunday, November 1, and an inspector attended the area that day to assess the incident and its potential environmental impact.”
The agency said: “Investigations continued Monday and Tuesday and will continue Wednesday, November 4, to attempt to identify the source of the pollution.”
It also confirmed that “a significant number of fish mortalities have unfortunately been confirmed”. The investigation is being carried out jointly by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs’ Inland Fisheries staff and NIEA personnel.
MLA seeks information on response to river pollution
DUP MLA Gareth Wilson raised the incident after a meeting of the DAERA Committee. Speaking under Any Other Business at the end of the meeting, he said he had asked for a briefing from the NIEA on how pollution incidents in rivers are prioritised and how quickly the agency responds.
Mr Wilson said he was concerned about any delay in getting to the site to establish the type and possible source of pollution. He argued that a rapid response could help stop any further flow of contaminants or toxins and support efforts to determine what happened and who was responsible.
He described pollution incidents as “always disheartening and concerning”, particularly because of the damage they can cause to river ecosystems. He said speed was essential in responding to such incidents and that he would be interested in the NIEA’s response.
The joint investigation remains ongoing. The source of the pollution has not been identified in the supplied report.