Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Diana Armstrong has expressed shock at the first confirmed case of the highly invasive Quagga Mussel in Lower Lough Erne, warning it poses a serious risk to Northern Ireland’s ecosystems and water quality. She criticised DAERA for failing to enforce robust biosecurity measures and called for urgent action to protect our waterways.

“I am shocked by the first confirmed case of the highly invasive Quagga Mussel in Lower Lough Erne. This is a serious threat to our ecosystems and water quality.

“It was only recently that Minister Muir confirmed to me he didn’t even know how many Zebra Mussels existed in Lough Neagh, now this. That lack of awareness and oversight speaks volumes about the failure to prioritise biosecurity.

“This alarming development highlights a complete failure by DAERA to implement robust biosecurity measures. The absence of guidance on power-washing facilities and effective regulation of watercraft movements is unacceptable and has left our waterways exposed.

“Our lakes and rivers are vital natural assets, and DAERA must urgently step up to protect them. Biosecurity must become a top priority before it’s too late.”