The South Down MLA said: “It is incredibly alarming to hear that NI Water has been discharging sewerage into coastal bathing waters on such a massive scale.

“Coming just one day after the Office for Environmental Protection’s report on water quality in Northern Ireland, this highlights even further the damaging impact of our over-stretched and under-funded wastewater infrastructure. 

“Northern Ireland’s coastline is one of its natural wonders. Natural beauty spots and beaches from the North Coast, along the Causeway Coast, and wrapping around to County Down all attract visitors from around the world who come to admire the stunning scenery. Additionally, a significant portion of our population takes pleasure in spending time along the coast and swimming in its waters.

“However, discharging sewage waste into our coastal waters not only harms the environment but also has ecological and health impacts as well. Newcastle has been identified as one of the most affected areas by sewage waste being discharged into the waters. Pipes near bathing areas in Newcastle have led to dangerously high levels of E. coli and intestinal enterococci, posing a very serious health risk to swimmers in the area.

“It is unacceptable for NI Water to discharge vast amounts of untreated sewage waste into our coastal waters. We urgently need to see decisive action to address these issues, and that starts with a plan from the Infrastructure Minister to bring our wastewater system up to standard.”