IFI gains conviction against Uisce Éireann for pollution of Mayo River

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) has gained a conviction against Uisce Eireann following a wastewater treatment plant discharge into a wild brown trout habitat. 

Uisce Éireann was found to have committed pollution breaches relating to the Balla Wastewater Treatment Plant, Co Mayo, and must now pay €3,165 in connection with the case. The incident happened at the Rodney River, a tributary of the Manulla River in Co Mayo.

Mary Walsh, Director of IFI's western region(Ballina) said: "IFI welcomes the outcome of this case, and will continue to monitor and protect this vulnerable river habitat. This catchment is under environmental pressure and requires robust protection. Fortunately, no fish died as a result of the pollution."The discharge of poorly-treated sewage from the Balla Wastewater Treatment Plant increased the nutrient concentration of the river water. This can make it less suitable to sensitive fish species such as brown trout and the insects they feed on."

The case was heard at Castlebar District Court on November 20. Uisce Éireann was instructed to pay a fine of €750, and ordered to pay costs and expenses of €2,415 to IFI. The pollution incident occurred on May 20th 2025. IFI continues to urge the public to report instances of water pollution, fish kills, habitat destruction, or illegal fishing, to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.

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