IFI takes case against construction firm for Dublin pollution incident in which 1,000+ fish died

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has taken a prosecution case against a construction firm after high levels of chlorine entered a Dublin river, killing more than 1,000 fish.

The pollution event occurred during the commissioning of a new water treatment plant in Saggart, and impacted a 3.5 km stretch of the River Camac.

Deceased fish recovered from scene at the River Camac

IFI recorded more than 1,000 fish mortalities at the site of the incident, including approximately 500 brown trout, 250 crayfish, and 250 lamprey.

Coffey Construction (I) Limited was found to have accidentally allowed harmful matter to enter the river, and now must pay €6,800 in relation to the incident.

Commenting after the court verdict Dr Ronan Matson Eastern Director at IFI said: “Fish kills often result from human occurrences, and are a needless and avoidable waste of the State’s existing natural resources.

“The ripple effect of ecological damage on biodiversity is long-lasting – at a time of rapid environmental change.

“IFI staff deploy an emergency response to any fish kill incident.

“It is crucial that any signs of concern are reported to IFI immediately to its 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.

“This enables officers to respond swiftly, find a cause, and prosecute those responsible.”

The case against the accused was heard at Dublin District Court on September 23rd, 2024.

Coffey Construction (I) Ltd was directed to pay costs of €6,300 to IFI, and to make a €500 contribution to the Little Flower Penny Dinners charity.

The case was adjourned to November 4th, 2024, and the presiding judge indicated he would apply the Probation Act on that date if payments had been made.

The pollution and fish kill event happened on August 23rd, 2023.

IFI continues to urge the public to report instances of fish kills, water pollution, habitat destruction, or illegal fishing, to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.