Drilling operations on Lough Foyle have been suspended by Irish Water following concern from the Loughs Agency’s Director of Conservation and Protection.
The move follows pressure on the Irish Utility from politicians, fishermen and local protest in the area last week.
Local protests were staged last week against planned Irish Water operations in the area.
The Campaign for a Clean Estuary received confirmation from John Mc Cartney, Director of Conservation and Protection, that operations had been halted following concern about Oyster breeding in July/August on the Lough Foyle.
Operations will not resume until an opportunity to evaluate concerns raised.
Reacting to the news, Enda Craig said: “Not alone is Irish Water’s proposed Sewage Discharge Pipe threatening the Shorewalk, Bathing Waters and Beaches between Moville and Greencastle but also threatens the important local fishery that exists in the vicinity of the discharge pipe as can be seen in this schematic graphic.
“Let there be no doubt about it, Irish Water suspended drilling operations because the local fishermen told them straight up that they would not stand idly by and watch their valuable fishery at Carnagarve on Lough Foyle being destroyed,” he added.
“They were told the drilling rig would be blocked if they attempted to tow it to the proposed pipe site. The drilling crew were told that they were being used as a battering ram by Irish Water.
“They stated that they were unaware of the fishermen’s concerns,” Craig continued.
“The total lack of manners and consultation by Irish Water with the fishermen highlighted the complete arrogance of an organisation that feels they can ride rough-shod with impunity over anyone and anything.”
