Major fish kill discovered in Crana River - Donegal Daily

Inland Fisheries Ireland is investigating a significant fish kill on the Crana River outside Buncrana.An initial assessment estimates that approximately 200 fis...

Inland Fisheries Ireland is investigating a significant fish kill on the Crana River outside Buncrana.

An initial assessment estimates that approximately 200 fish, believed to be juvenile salmon, have died in an affected stretch around five kilometres upstream from the town.

Officers from the fisheries body attended the scene on Friday and took samples from the area.

Pat Kane of the Buncrana Anglers’ Association said the incident was discovered in the Illies area.

"This isn’t the first time we have had a fish kill in this area over the years," Mr Kane said.

IFI said it will work with relevant State partners in line with the new national protocol for responding to fish kills.

Local Sinn Féin Councillor Jack Murray said he is deeply concerned by the incident.

Donegal pop artist continues breakout year with moving new single

High-speed broadband rolled out to 1,900 customers in Donegal Town

"The Crana is one of Buncrana and Inishowen’s most precious natural resources. It is an important habitat, a hugely valued angling river and somewhere generations of local people have grown up beside and care deeply about.

"It is particularly concerning that this is not the first fish kill recorded in this area.

"We now need to establish the cause of this incident and, crucially, determine what needs to be done to prevent it happening again."

Cllr Murray praised Buncrana Anglers Assocation for raising the alarm so quickly, and Inland Fisheries Ireland for their swift response.

He added: "I will continue to work with Buncrana Anglers, IFI and all relevant authorities to get answers and to ensure that every possible step is taken to protect the Crana into the future."

Councillor Joy Beard of the 100% Redress Party added: “The death of 150 juvenile salmon is deeply concerning. These fish are the future of the river, and this loss must be treated with the seriousness it deserves.

“We now need to find out exactly what happened, as a matter of urgency. Samples are being sent for testing, and the public deserves a full, clear account of the outcome, what caused this fish kill, how far any impact extends and what action will follow.

“This cannot simply become another incident that is noted and forgotten about. If this was caused by pollution or another preventable failure, there must be accountability. More importantly, firm measures must be put in place to ensure this never happens again.

“The Crana River is a hugely important part of our local natural heritage. It is valued by residents, anglers and visitors alike, and we all have a responsibility to protect it for future generations.”