Wildfowlers “singled out” as Lough Neagh leases not renewed

The wildfowling community in Northern Ireland has expressed deep disappointment following the decision by Lord Shaftesbury not to renew shooting leases on Lough Neagh.

Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, has long been a hub for wildfowling enthusiasts, who have leased sections of the lough for controlled shooting for generations.

However, in recent years the ecology of the lough has been increasingly affected by the spread of toxic blue-green algae. Lord Shaftesbury has said that he believes allowing wildfowling to continue, is incompatible with efforts to limit the ongoing environmental damage in the area.

Wildfowlers insist that they are being unfairly targeted while other activities, such as commercial sand extraction and agricultural runoff, remain largely unregulated contributors to the lough’s deterioration.

Gary McCartney, Director of Countryside Alliance Ireland, expressed frustration at the decision, stating: “This is a devastating blow to our community, which has been actively involved in the responsible management of Lough Neagh’s wildfowl populations for decades.

“It is deeply unfair to single us out when the real culprits behind the lough’s environmental problems are being allowed to continue their activities unchecked.”