IFI statement re Uisce Éireann prosecution for incident that killed 2,000 fish

Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) has welcomed the outcome of its prosecution of Uisce Éireann for chemical discharges to the Ballymacraven river, Ennistymon, Co Clare in May 2023.

At Ennis District Court on February 16th, Uisce Éireann was fined €10,000, and must pay €8,477 in costs in connection with the case.

Commenting on the verdict, David McInerney Director of IFI’s Shannon River Basin District said: “The impact of the discharges from Uisce Éireann’s water treatment plant resulted in a very significant fish kill over 2.6km of the river.

“It created a devastating impact on an ecosystem that supports vulnerable salmon and eel stocks. The court was told the incident was an ‘ecological tragedy.’

“It is critical that Uisce Éireann ensures that adequate systems and processes are in place to prevent any such event recurring. We welcome the improvements made to date, and future improvements to be made at this plant.”

The incident caused the death of an estimated 2,000 fish.

Deceased species included a large number of eel, along with salmon, trout, rudd and flounder, of all ages.

IFI’s in-depth investigations led to the instigation of legal proceedings against Uisce Éireann, with court procedures concluding on February 16th 2024. 

Uisce Éireann accepted liability for discharge of deleterious matter from the Ennistymon Water Treatment Plant on two separate dates in May 2023.

IFI reminds the public they can report instances of fish kills, pollution, fish in distress, habitat destruction or illegal fishing by calling its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.