Probe launched into pollution-related fish deaths

An investigation was launched tonight after pollution caused the deaths of a large number of fish on a Northern Ireland waterway.

Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) inspectors were investigating the deaths of hundreds of fish in Co Armagh.

The agency said it was alerted by the Fisheries Conservancy Board to a pollution incident at Moneypenny Lock, off the Newry Canal in Portadown at around 3pm.

Initial reports suggest hundreds of fish have died.

Water Quality Inspectors and FCB officers were tasked immediately to the area to begin the investigation and to assess the environmental impact.

An NIEA spokesman said: “The incident has claimed the lives of hundreds of fish – mostly stone loach but also roach and pike.

“We are anxious to find out the cause of the pollution but our officers are also engaged in an operation to pump oxygen into the canal to protect stock.

“The agency would urge anyone who knows anything about this to help our investigation identify those responsible.

“We would also remind anyone who comes across a pollution incident to immediately contact the Water Pollution hotline on 0800 807060.”