Anglers who fish in the Eddie Fullerton Dam are growing frustrated with the condition of the reservoir after the Irish Water takeover, according to Councillor Jack Murray.
The Inishowen MD and County Councillor has said that the dam in the Pollan Valley has been deteriorating after responsibility for its upkeep was transferred from the local authority to Irish Water.
Cllr Murray raised a motion at this month’s County Council meeting to highlight the negative effects of the changeover, to recognise the benefits of fishing tourism in such areas and to call on Irish Water to maintain the appearance of the dam to a high standard.
“The Eddie Fullerton Dam in Buncrana is one of the largest Irish Water owned infrastructures in the county,” Cllr Murray said.
“A number of anglers are very frustrated with the condition of the dam. The water quality is becoming very poor and is damaging the salmon stocks.”
Cllr Murray said that he wrote to Irish Water on the issue, but his concerns were dismissed with a blunt response.
Cllr Albert Doherty added: “This dam is a creator and contributor to the tourism industry and I believe that potential is not being explored.”
Donegal County Council agreed to write to Irish Water and request a direct response. Director of Service Michael McGarvey added that the executive will explore what work can be done by local council staff to improve the area.