Flood hit residents fish for answers
Wednesday, 24 September 2008
DOAGH residents who requested a river be dredged to prevent flooding have been told the problem may not be dealt with because of fish in the river.
When the residents requested the river be cleared they were advised by a member of the that it couldn't happen because the clearing would disturb the fish spawning in the river.
Speaking to the Gazette residents of the development advised the problem is with the river not being dredged.
The Bridge beside the building has two of its arches clogged with stones salt and debris, "if this was cleared then water could get through and even if there was some heavy rainfall there wouldn't be a problem," said resident Johnson Gordon.
He added: "It's clear the side arches of the bridge are so clogged up that water can't get through, moving this wouldn't disturb fish, there's no water just mud so there are no fish to disturb."
Isabelle Thompson who recently celebrated her 82nd birthday may have to move out while her apartment is redecorated, she said: "I understand that the fish are important but I really think this could be sorted out." Bill who lives in the development, spoke to a local angling club who said this is not the time of year for fish to be spawning, he said: "Fish don't spawn in this river until November, if the Rivers Agency got their finger out this problem could be sorted out before the spawning season begins."
Cllr Jim Bingham told the Gazette he plans to speak to the rivers agency to get the problem solved.
Meanwhile on the issue of rubbish in rivers, South Antrim MLA Thomas Burns has met with Environment Minister Sammy Wilson to discuss the issue of dumping and pollution.
Mr Burns described the meeting as 'candid but constructive' and said he was 'encouraged' by Mr Wilson's forthright views on how repeat offenders would be dealt with in future.
The SDLP Assemblyman said: "The continued destruction of rivers in South Antrim is totally unacceptable and cannot continue. The Minister understands this and has given me strong assurances that a hard-line approach will be taken with repeat offenders in the future.
"A fine of a few hundred pounds does not deter repeat offenders. I was therefore very pleased to hear the Minister say that when the evidence was strong enough they will be brought before the High Court. That means they will face very large fines and directors of companies could go to jail. These are the types of punishments which are required."
