Sir, - In January and February there was extensive slurry spreading in the Sheelin catchment area. As there is no grass growth and a lot of rain at that time, slurry ends up in water courses and finally in the lake.
In March, Lough Sheelin became grossly discoloured with water clarity down to less than 12 inches. I would like to ask the IFA and the farmers if this is the result of good farming practice.
Lough Sheelin is part of the Shannon catchment which already suffers from high levels of nutrients, principally polluting.
There must be a better way to deal with surplus agricultural waste. The installation of digesters to convert slurry to methane gas or electricity should be seriously considered. The by-law introduced by Cavan County Council should be observed, with proper storage and spreading during the growing season.
During the foot-and-mouth crisis, the entire county supported the farmers. In return they should support efforts to restore the water quality of our rivers and lakes in the heartland of Ireland. - Yours, etc.,
PAUL BURKE-KENNEDY, Mount Nugent, Co Cavan.