T2. Mr Donnelly asked the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, in light of thousands of fish being killed in recent weeks in rivers across Northern Ireland, for an update on the fish kill in the River Roe just a few days ago. (AQT 402/22-27)

I thank the Member for his question. The Loughs Agency was informed of a fish kill on a tributary of the River Roe near Burnfoot in Dungiven on 14 June, and that kill was confirmed as significant on 15 June. The Loughs Agency is leading the investigation and has powers of investigation and enforcement under the Foyle Fisheries Act. The Northern Ireland Environment Agency will assist in the investigation, as required.

Is the Minister aware of yet another pollution incident, this one at the Loop river?

The pollution incidents that the Member has outlined are really concerning for me, and there are too many of them. To have fish kills occurring days after each other is a real matter of concern, and we need to take action. It is important to get these plans agreed and turn the situation around.

I am, unfortunately, detailing to the House another water pollution incident. On Friday 31 May 2024, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency received a water pollution report indicating that there was an odorous grey-coloured material present in the Loop river in the Montgomery Road/Ladas Drive area of Belfast. The Northern Ireland Environment Agency immediately deployed a water quality inspector to the area to confirm the report and assess the environmental impact. The water pollution was confirmed by the NIEA inspector, and an investigation under the Water Order 1999 was initiated to attempt to identify the source.

The area involved is largely urbanised and industrial, and the culverted nature of the waterways and the sewerage system in the area can make investigation more difficult. A number of samples were collected last week that allowed NIEA inspectors to follow a definite line of enquiry regarding the source of the ongoing pollution. The company involved is investigating internally as a matter or urgency. It is dye testing and systematically closing down the production lines to attempt to identify the source of the pollution that is being discharged into the Loop river. NIEA inspectors continue to work with the company involved and will do so until the discharge is identified and stopped. NIEA treats all aspects of live investigations as if they are sub judice whilst they remain ongoing, and I cannot provide further details at this time.