THE Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has confirmed that blue green algae has been detected in the vicinity of Rossigh Bay, Lower Lough Erne, Fermanagh.

The Council advises residents and visitors to be aware of the potential presence of blue green algae in all waterways throughout the District, due to the potential risk to the health of humans and animals.

Blue green algae is a naturally occurring organism which can be found in loughs, rivers and ponds, and is most prevalent between May to September due to increased temperatures and sunlight. 

The Council has erected signage to alert visitors and residents to Rossigh Bay to the presence of the algae, and to exercise caution in this area.

The Council has said that if anyone suspects the presence of blue green algae, they should avoid contact with the water, and the adjacent shoreline, and report the issue to the Environmental Health Service.

The detection of the toxic blooms, which poses a health risk to humans and animals, comes after the Minister for Agriculture, Andrew Muir, revealed that seven sites on Upper and Lower Lough Erne are currently monitored by his Department.

"A combination of monthly and quarterly monitoring is undertaken for 29 chemicals and trace metals," said Minister Muir, in response to an Assembly question by DUP MLA, Deborah Erskine.

"During each six-year River Basin Plan cycle, additional monitoring is undertaken each month for a 12-month period.

"This additional testing looks for a wide range of pollutants that are considered potential threats to water quality."

Minister Muir added: "Verification of reports of potential sightings of blue green algae [results in] notifications issued to local councils and water operators."