To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any work he is planning to assess the scale and impact on the (i) lough; and (ii) marine environment of untreated sewage releases into the River Foyle.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates wastewater discharges through discharge consents issued under the Water Order (as amended) 1999. NIEA does not consent the discharge of untreated sewage to the aquatic environment.

I can advise that my Department has no plans presently to assess the scale and impact on Lough Foyle or the marine environment of untreated sewage releases into the River Foyle.

My Department monitors nutrient levels and impacts in the marine environment but it is not possible to apportion these to particular sources. My Department however, will continue to conduct targeted studies to identify pollution sources and develop the appropriate measures for implementation to improve water quality.