Environmental Protection Agency test results have shown no immediate cause for concern following a massive fish kill that claimed up to 46,000 fish along a 30-kilometer stretch of Cork’s River Blackwater.
The extensive fish mortality occurred between Lombardstown and Killavullen in North Cork, prompting urgent investigations by multiple agencies.
Minister of State for Fisheries and the Marine Timmy Dooley met with senior officials in Mallow today, including Inland Fisheries Ireland Acting CEO Suzanne Campion, EPA representatives, and other staff to discuss the incident.
Key findings from the Marine Institute revealed no evidence of bacterial infection or systemic disease in test samples, though virology results are expected by the end of August.
Current testing indicates that lesions observed on the dead fish are likely associated with an environmental irritant rather than disease or infection.
“Results to date from the EPA do not raise concern, and more water quality results will be available in due course,” an IFI spokesperson confirmed.
The investigation continues with coordination between multiple authorities including the Marine Institute, EPA, Cork County Council, and Uisce Éireann to determine the exact cause of the fish mortalities.
Suzanne Campion praised the cooperation received from local communities during the investigation process.
“The IFI welcomes today’s constructive engagement and collaboration with angler groups,” she said. “We share their deep concerns over the very large number of fish mortalities on the Blackwater.”
The River Blackwater is one of Ireland’s premier salmon and trout fishing rivers, making the fish kill particularly concerning for local angling communities and environmental groups.
Further test results are expected as the multi-agency investigation continues into what caused one of the most significant fish kills recorded in recent years on the Cork waterway.