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WILDFOWLERS “SINGLED OUT” AT LOUGH NEAGH
The wildfowling community in Northern Ireland has expressed deep disappointment following the decision by Lord Shaftesbury not to renew shooting leases on Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles.
The lough has long been a hub for wildfowling enthusiasts, who have leased sections of the lough for controlled shooting for generations. However, in recent years its ecology 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.”
Impact on the retail trade The decision is expected to have a knock-on effect for local retailers who cater to Northern Ireland’s shooting and wildfowling community. Retailers supplying shotguns, ammunition, clothing and field equipment may see reduced demand as fewer opportunities for legal wildfowling restrict participation in the sport.
For dealers operating in counties such as Antrim and Armagh, which border Lough Neagh, the loss of shooting access could translate into lost revenue at a time when many countryside businesses are already contending with tightening legislation and economic pressure.