Inland Fisheries Ireland statement regarding fish kill in Co Clare

Inland Fisheries Ireland is continuing to investigate a serious incident near Ennistymon in Co Clare in which up to 2,000 fish have died.

The fish kill occurred on the Ballymacraven River in Co. Clare and spread for 2.6 kilometres in length to where the Ballymacraven River meets the Inagh River.

Species of fish discovered dead include a large number of eel, along with salmon, trout, rudd and flounder, of all ages.

Inland Fisheries Ireland(IFI) first became aware of an ecological issue in recent days when a member of the public informed staff of a rusty red colour on the river.

Water sampling work was subsequently undertaken to assess the quality of the water.

IFI is not in a position to confirm the specific cause of this fish kill at this early stage, but our investigations are continuing.

IFI, the State agency responsible for the protection and conservation of freshwater fish and habitats, reminds the public they can report instances of fish kills, pollution or illegal fishing nationwide by calling its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.