Yesterday (4 March) Alliance South Antrim MLA John Blair met with DAERA Minister Andrew Muir and representatives of the Antrim & District Angling Association, Glenavy Conservation & Angling Club, and Crumlin & District Angling Association in Parliament Buildings. The meeting was arranged to address the effects of river pollution on angling clubs, fish stocks and biodiversity.

Mr Blair said: “I am delighted that local angling clubs from my South Antrim constituency met with myself and the DAERA Minister, Andrew Muir MLA, and I am also grateful to the Minister and his officials for taking time to discuss the vital issues raised.

“It is clear to the clubs and myself that there has been a pattern of repeated pollution on the Glenavy, Crumlin, and Six Mile Rivers, all of which flow into Lough Neagh, and today we took time to discuss with the Minister these pollution incidents and the outcomes from reporting them.

“The water and biodiversity quality of these rivers are crucial, not only for the native species and natural habitats in and around the rivers, but also in relation to dealing effectively with the ecological crisis, which has arisen at Lough Neagh.

“During the meeting the Minister reiterated his commitment to tackling water pollution and outlined a range of initiatives that are underway to improve our water courses. The Minister also committed to ongoing engagement with the angling sector to develop shared solutions.

“I would also like to highlight and pay tribute to the local clubs who are working together and with others to establish river trusts to better protect our natural environment.

“We are currently facing a climate crisis and Alliance, alongside Minister Muir, will continue to collaborate with key individuals and focus efforts on helping to restore the natural environment and tackle environmental pollution.”