Calls for halt to Lough Swilly mussel dredging

COASTWATCH HAS called for an immediate halt to mussel dredging in Lough Swilly, Co Donegal, due to the impact on some of the last native oyster beds in Europe.

Karin Dubsky, Coastwatch co-ordinator and marine biologist, said the organisation is seeking a review of the decision to authorise the work by a 150-foot mussel dredger, believed to be transferring mussel seed from Lough Swilly to Lough Foyle.

Local oyster fisherman Stephen Hardy said that up to 20 small boats are dependent on the oyster fishery and are affected by the dredging, which began in early July.

The dredger is moving the mussel seed to Lough Foyle, which is infected by the shellfish disease bonamia. Fishermen fear that its movement will transmit the disease to Lough Swilly.

"No ecological impact assessment has been produced. Now, this week, we had a repeat there with more damage," said Ms Dubsky.

A statement from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries said Lough Swilly Shellfish Growers' Co-Op Society Ltd held an aquaculture licence to cultivate oysters and mussels in areas of Lough Swilly.

"As such, the co-op is entitled to dredge for mussels and oysters within the area licensed to it," the department said. It added it had received complaints about the dredging activity, which it was currently examining.