Huge fish kill on offaly river

Inland Fisheries Ireland is currently investigating a major fish kill which occurred on the River Clodiagh, a tributary of the Tullamore River, on Tuesday last. IFI responded immediately to reports of a pollution discharge to the river.

Some 3,700 fish mortalities have been estimated so far over a five-kilometre stretch of the river, with the majority consisting predominantly of trout, along with other species such as salmon, lamprey, minnow and stoneloach.

IFI is investigating the possibility that a discharge of chemicals may have occurred from a specified location and is following a definite line of enquiry. Water and sludge samples have been taken with a view to a possible prosecution.

Inland Fisheries Ireland Director, Amanda Mooney, stated: “This pollution discharge has been a devastating blow to the River Clodiagh. The quantities of fish present would indicate that the river had recovered considerably in recent years from a previous eutrophication state, with excellent salmonid spawning and nursery habitat. We are asking the public to report any suspected discharge into any river immediately to the IFI 24 hour confidential hotline 1890 34 74 24.”

It is estimated that the river will take a considerable number of years to recover following this incident.

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has a 24 hour confidential hotline number to enable members of the general public to report incidents - 1890 34 74 24 or 1890 FISH 24. This phone line is designed to encourage the reporting of incidents of illegal fishing, water pollution and invasive species.