Northern Ireland Environment Minister Edwin Poots visited the Six Mile Water River last month to view an ongoing pollution prevention programme championed by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA).
Mr Poots said, "The Six Mile Water and the rivers which flow into it have been affected by pollution on a number of occasions over the past few years, some of which have had a devastating effect. However, I welcome that the ongoing actions by the NIEA have resulted in a reduction in the number of confirmed water pollution incidents in the Six Mile Water River catchment."
The NIEA has carried out a series of measures including pollution prevention inspections and site drainage examinations as part of its pollution prevention programme in the area. They have been working closely with anglers, industry and other local interest groups, to establish a River Trust on the Six Mile Water. This partnership approach to pollution prevention was welcomed by the Minister who said, "This responsible approach between the NIEA, local businesses and interest groups will help towards achieving the water quality we expect from the river."
Mr Poots appealed to people who work or live close to a river or lake to remain vigilant to ensure no polluting matter is allowed to escape and pollute waters. He said, "Water pollution is a crime and like any other crime, prevention is better than cure."
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