Coalisland boat protest highlights environmental damage

DOZENS of boatmen converged at the mouth of Lough Neagh yesterday (Sunday) afternoon to protest a problem which they claim poses an imminent threat to the safety and livelihoods of local people.

The demonstration, which took place around the Ferry Road bridge in Coalisland, saw local lough-users come together to call for a build-up of sand and debris to be cleared from the Blackwater River.

The occasion was also used to draw further attention to an ongoing environmental issue confronting the UK and Ireland’s largest freshwater body – namely, the growth of toxic algae in the waters of Lough Neagh.

On Sunday, in a show of strength and solidarity, local fishermen, who say their livelihoods are threatened by the sandbank, were joined by members of Lough Neagh Search and Rescue, whose emergency response times are hampered by the blockage.

Together they formed an eye-catching convoy – one which they hope will help see one of Tyrone’s most-used waterways restored to a safer state.

Ahead of the protest, organiser Gerard McCourt claimed the lough has been “destroyed”.

“The rivers are poisoned, fishing is finished and the tourism potential is a no-go simply because we have no management. Our councils are sitting back getting well-paid for doing absolutely nothing.”

Mid Ulster District Councillor, Malachy Quinn, has called for an urgent task force to be set up to tackle the situation.

“The current situation at Lough Neagh is critical.

“All of this is happening while every statutory agency responsible for the lough is passing the blame and refusing to take responsibility for these problems.”

Cllr Quinn wants all parties involved to come together around one table to discuss the issue.

“People are fed up with excuses and we need to act before it’s too late.”

Lough Neagh Rescue, who say their work has been “severely impeded” by the ‘dreadful silting’, have also called on government agencies and local councils to urgently deal with the blockage.

A spokesperson for Lough Neagh Rescue said, “The canal is now the only access point to the river
from Lough Neagh as the Barmouth is completely blocked and navigable.

“The depth drops to less than two feet, which poses significant risk to our crew and vessels.

“In addition to this, our speed is cut to less than walking pace for a considerable distance. In a situation where seconds can mean the difference in rescue and recovery (living or dying), our crews are being prevented from providing prompt emergency assistance to those in danger.

“This is a tragedy waiting to happen and it is only a matter of time before this hazard costs lives.”