Longford rivers under threat from pollution
People in Longford are being asked for their views on what can be done to improve water quality in local rivers - after recent reports show the effects of climate change are becoming more noticeable.
A public consultation on the Draft River Basin Management Plan is currently underway, and this is your chance to have a say.
Agencies responsible for protecting Ireland’s rivers have found that agriculture, forestry, and urban wastewater treatment are the leading causes of pollution in our rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters.
“There’s a big effort involving a lot of organisations trying to pinpoint what’s happening in our rivers. We need local people to help us get a better understanding,” outlined Karen Kennedy, of the Local Authority Waters Programme, also known as LAWPRO.
She continued, “We live in unprecedented times. The effects of climate change and loss of biodiversity are clear, and this will have knock-on effects for our health and well-being. This is especially true with water quality in our rivers.”
LAWPRO works with the 31 local authorities in Ireland, assessing the condition and health of our rivers. While some rivers have improved, unfortunately half the rivers and lakes in Ireland are failing to meet good water quality standards.
“We need urgent action to stop the decline, reverse the damage, and protect these vital natural resources,” she remarked.
Longford people are asked to register and attend one of the two Longford consultation meetings online on February 21 & 24.
These meetings will provide vital information on the Draft River Basin Management Plan for Ireland 2022-2027, a questions and answers session, and a discussion on local issues.
The meeting on Monday, February 21 at 7.30pm is for people in Moyne, Dromard, Ballinamuck, Drumlish, Aughnacliffe, Mullinalaghta, Ballinalee, Killoe, Granard, Abbeylara, Edgeworthstown, Longford town and Newtownforbes.
While the Thursday, February 24 meeting at 7.30pm covers Legan, Abbeyshrule, Ballymahon, Newtowncashel, Kenagh, Lanesboro, Killashee, Clondra, Ardagh, Moydow.
“This is your chance to have your say and put forward your views on what needs to be done to help the rivers and lakes of Longford,” pointed out Karen.
Register for your local meeting at www.lawaters.ie or via Facebook @LAWPROteam. You can contact LAWPRO’s Head office at 052 616 6230.
For information on the Draft River Basin Management plan 2022 -2027 visit the virtual consultation room at LAwaters.ie.