Northern Ireland to Launch First Environmental Improvement Plan for Lough Neagh

The plan aims to address the severe algal blooms and pollution affecting the UK and Ireland's largest freshwater lake, which is crucial for drinking water and local industries.

• Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir announced the plan during a debate on Lough Neagh's protection.
• The plan will tackle issues like pollution, invasive species, and the effects of climate change on the lake.
• Lough Neagh supplies 40% of Northern Ireland's drinking water and supports a significant eel-fishing industry.
• A cross-departmental water quality steering group is drafting recommendations to combat the lake's blue-green algae problem.
• The Assembly calls for a new management structure and public ownership of the lake to ensure its protection and improvement.

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