The fallout from last month’s devastating fish kill on the River Blackwater continues, with local representatives demanding stronger accountability from state agencies.
Labour TD Eoghan Kenny has confirmed that, following weeks of pressure, the Oireachtas Environment Committee will bring Inland Fisheries Ireland, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Marine Institute and Cork County Council before them on September 30th.
“This is about transparency and accountability,” Deputy Kenny said. “Our state agencies represent the public , and must be held responsible for how they act, how they communicate, and how they protect our environment. On September 30th, we will finally put the questions that need answering, for the people, and for the Blackwater.”
Meanwhile, Cllr. Gearóid Murphy has echoed public concern at local level, describing the fish kill as “an ecological catastrophe” and highlighting the impact on wildlife and anglers.
“At our Council meetings last week, I raised the issue and brought a motion to write to all relevant departments, expressing our shock and calling for a full investigation,” Cllr. Murphy explained. “Unfortunately, we were told that tests have so far not determined the cause. I will continue working with local TDs and councillors across all parties to ensure the perpetrators are found, and to make sure nothing like this ever happens again.”
With investigations ongoing and public anger still raw, all eyes are now on the September 30th hearing, where agencies will be pressed to account for their actions and the future safeguarding of the Blackwater.
