Cameras for 
reservoir siteafter remains are dumped

The incident drew condemnation earlier this month after the remains of three calves and four sheep were discovered at the site north of Carrickfergus. Gates, installed at a cost of £7,000 at the location, were also damaged.

Tuesday’s session of the Committee for Agriculture and Rural Affairs included a briefing on agricultural and rural crime by a PSNI team led by Assistant Chief Constable George Hamilton.

Speaking beforehand, East Antrim MLA Oliver McMullan (Sinn Fein), said: “I will be raising this. I want to see what relationship there is between the police and water authorities. We need a co-ordinated response. It’s a problem that happens every year.”

Meanwhile, NI Water, which emphasised at the time there was no risk to water quality, is currently examining security at Lough Mourne.

A spokesperson told the TIMES: “NI Water has repaired the damaged gate, but further damage has been caused, most likely by heavy machinery or a tractor.

“NI Water has implemented more robust security at this access point and is also in the process of investigating the erection of security cameras and appropriate signage.

“Fortunately, no further illegal dumping or flytipping has taken place at the site and NI Water is not aware of any other illegal dumping on its land in the vicinity.

“NI Water would urge anyone with information on this matter to contact the PSNI or independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

The gates were erected last year in order to prevent flytipping. Over the last year, there have been four serious incidents involving not only animal carcasses but asbestos and building waste.