A multi-agency approach is needed to remove or remediate thousands of man-made barriers to fish migration in Ireland’s rivers, according to Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s spokesperson on biodiversity, said:
“What is happening across Ireland’s network of rivers and streams is nothing less than an ecological tragedy.
“Man-made barriers such as weirs, dams, culverts, sluices, ramps and bridges are making it impossible for migratory fish to travel upstream to breed. This includes salmon, which is a highly endangered species, as well as trout, lamprey and eels.
“I have been involved in a groundbreaking project in Wicklow, led by the East Wicklow Rivers Trust in partnership with Wicklow County Council, Inland Fisheries Ireland, the Local Authority Water Programme (LAWPRO) and a local farmer.
“The initiative recently saw the completion of a barrier modification programme for the Derry Water river, at Ballinglen Bridge near Tinahely. Using local stones to create a rock ramp under the bridge, this will open up breeding grounds for migratory fish upstream.
“This is just one local example of what needs to be done on a national level. Under EU Nature Restoration Law, Ireland will be obliged to remove or remediate these obstacles.
“Given the scale of the challenge ahead, a multi-agency approach will be required to remove the tens of thousands of man-made barriers in Ireland’s waterways.”
September 24, 2024