Lampreys — an ancient lineage of jawless fish — are found all around the world, but
in Ireland, they are a protected species, struggling to survive. And now, someone's
careless act has left thousands of them dead along with thousands of other river fish as well.
Last week, after receiving a heads up from locals that something was amiss in a County Tipperary river, officials went to inspect. What they found was devastating.
Dead fish as far as the eye could see. In total, nearly 15,000 had been killed over a 3-mile stretch of river. The death toll included: 1,400 brown trout, 805 stone loach, 1,820 minnows, 70 salmon, 70 crayfish and 84 sticklebacks. But the most tragic number was the 10,500 lamprey.
Investigators suspect that someone — whether by accident or on purpose —
released some sort of chemical agent into the river, possibly a pesticide or herbicide. These agents can be so strong that even a tiny amount can effect miles of river, destroying animal life, especially fish.
Whoever did this, and for whatever reason, needs to face justice.
People must take responsibility for their actions, especially when they endanger an already at-risk species. Call upon the Inland Fisheries and the Environmental Protection Agency to find and prosecute the person culpable for this terrible act of environmental negligence. Sign the petition. 