Minister pledges support for ‘crucial’ Loughs Agency work

Northern Ireland's new Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, recently undertook a visit to Loughs Agency Headquarters in Prehen, gaining first-hand insights into the organisation's essential work.

(L-R) David Simpson DAERA Corporate Branch, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, Board Member Laurence Arbuckle, Chief Executive Officer of Loughs Agency, Sharon McMahon, Board Member Conor Corr and Joanne McClements DAERA Corporate Branch.

Sharon McMahon, Chief Executive Officer of Loughs Agency, warmly welcomed Minister Muir's visit. She said: “We were delighted to host Minister Muir at Loughs Agency, providing an opportunity to share information on our research and preservation initiatives. In light of current environmental challenges, it is more crucial than ever to showcase the Agency's pivotal role in safeguarding our aquatic ecosystems.

Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir at Loughs Agency.

Minister Muir's visit involved a comprehensive exploration of the Agency's facilities, featuring live demonstrations and discussions led by key personnel. Following this, Minister Muir acknowledged the Agency's commitment to addressing present challenges and planning for a sustainable future.

He said: “The efforts undertaken by Loughs Agency are indispensable for the health of our waterways and the preservation of our fisheries. I commend the dedicated team for their tireless efforts, and I look forward to working with the Agency over the time ahead.”

(L-R) Fisheries Inspector Jason McCartney, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, and Director of Conservation and Protection Seamus Cullinan.

Highlighting the continued importance of Loughs Agency in the environmental landscape, Minister Muir reaffirmed DAERA’s support. He added: “Loughs Agency remains a key player in our environmental efforts, and this visit reaffirms the government's commitment to collaboration and support for initiatives contributing to a sustainable and thriving environment.”