Minister Denies Official Sewage Warning for Lough

Posters along the County Antrim coast falsely claimed to be an "urgent public notice" regarding "raw sewage" in Belfast Lough. These signs, which warned against entering the water, were not placed by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera), according to Minister Andrew Muir.

Muir stated that the "misleading" posters did not originate from his department and that he was unaware of their source. He acknowledged public concern about sewage being discharged into the lough, a cherished area for local communities and wildlife. The Minister is prioritizing enhanced regulation and enforcement.

New legislation is being introduced to strengthen fines and penalties for water pollution offenses. Daera was made aware of the posters on Monday and has since informed NI Water. Minister Muir stressed the importance of accurate information when discussing water quality, particularly for designated bathing waters.