No simple solutions for the problems on the Suir says Tipperary biodiversity officer
Cllr Jim Ryan called for the biodiversity officer to be part of the LAWPRO plan
Thurles councillor Jim Ryan requested that council biodiversity officer Ann Marie Fleming be part of the LAWPRO plan to manage the River Suir in Thurles.
LAWPRO gave a presentation at the September sitting of the Thurles-Templemore Municipal District Council. At that meeting, it was decided that the process of developing a plan would commence with LAWPRO coordinating stakeholder cooperation.
Cllr Ryan said that some vegetation has been cleared from the river but he is concerned that by next year the problem will return.
Ms Fleming said she did attend a feasibility meeting for the plan. She said that cutting back the vegetation is "perceived" as a solution but it in reality makes little difference.
The problem in the river in Thurles is one of over-nutrition caused by agricultural activity in the area and substances entering the river.
Vegetation then breaks down causing algae bloom and sludge.
“It is such a complicated issue,” said Ms Fleming.