Government and Council Support

If you see a problem, don’t walk by. Report it to the authority that is supposed to do something about it. Several bodies have responsibilities water and the lakes and it can sometimes be difficult to know which one is relevant. But don’t let that put you off: these agencies all need eyes and ears on the ground and that is you.

When you make a report, keep a record of who you reported to and ask if your report has a reference number for follow up. And please let us know.

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). If it affects fish, IFI are interested. “Please report illegal fishing, fish kills, fish in distress, water pollution, habitat destruction, or invasive species by telephoning our confidential phoneline. Our number is: 0818 34 74 24(open 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week)”. The Galway office is responsible for the three lakes, tel. 091 563118.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). This agency is responsible for the designation of conservation sites in Ireland.Lough Corrib and the Lough Carra/Mask Complex are designated Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). The NPWS “works with farmers, other landowners and users, and national and local authorities, trying to achieve the best balance possible between farming and land-use on the one hand, and requirements for conserving nature in these selected areas, on the other.” If you see a Wildlife Crime they ask that you contact An Garda Síochána and the local wildlife ranger. WildlifeEnforcement@npws.gov.ie

Western Division Contacts are:

Lagduff Divisional Office Mayo. (098) 49996

Connemara National Park Office. (095) 41054

Galway County Council. If you report an issue there is a complaint form on the council website. This is useful as it starts a paper trail for following up your concern.The environment section at Galway County Council is located at Centrepoint, Tuam Road, Galway. H91 PY8H. Tel 091 509510. Email environment@galwaycoco.ie

Mayo County Council. Environmental complaints can be made by email to environment@mayococo.ie or by phone to (094) 9064000 and ask for Environment. Or via letter to Environment, Climate Change & Agriculture Section, Aras an Chontae, The Mall, Castlebar, Co. Mayo F23 WF90

Irish Water. The agency responsible for water supply and waste and sewage treatment. If a sewer or any water treatment facility is polluting a river or waterbody, contact Irish Water’s lines 1800 278 278 or 01 7072828. These lines are open 24 hours, 7 days a week.