A major new report shows that Cavan along with Cork has the worst record of fish kills in the country.
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has revealed there were 2,107 fish kills in Irish rivers and lakes from 1969-2022. With Cavan accounting for the highest proportion of kills along with Cork.
Counties Roscommon and Westmeath had the lowest proportion. [The report found in each case it took at least three years for the fish population to recover.Agriculture is the most significant factor in all kills at 25% of known causes since 2007.
The highest percentage of fish kills attributed to municipal sources - a source which has more than doubled since 2007 - was recorded in Co. Laois, followed by Cork, Cavan, Dublin and Tipperary The detailed study is the first comprehensive overview of related trends, locations, causes, and population recoveries over the 53 year period.
The vast majority of kills across the country occurred in rivers (81%), followed by lakes (12%) and artificial waterbodies such as ponds and canals (5%). The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications is currently carrying out a review of inland fisheries legislation. Existing sanctions are being examined, and it would include a potential update of penalties in respect of fishery, environmental, and other offences.
