The remains of a dead animal have lay at a popular Tandragee beauty spot over three weeks after they were initially reported.
The carcass, which is believed to be that of a sheep or a calf, has been lying on the edge of the river at Clare Glen, a popular trail for families and dog walkers.
It was initially reported by a concerned local on social media on Sunday, October 27, with others stating that it had been lying there for a number of days prior.
Armagh I understands that the incident has been reported to a number of bodies, such as DfI Rivers and Environmental Health at ABC Council.
A Department for Infrastructure spokesperson said: “The Department does not have statutory responsibility for the removal of fallen livestock from a watercourse unless it is causing a significant impediment to the flow of water, which is not the case at Clare Glen.
“On designated watercourses the Department would only consider removing fallen livestock to the nearest bank if it was causing, or likely to cause, a flooding problem. Such incidents where dead animals are found in a watercourse should be referred to the riparian landowner or the appropriate Local Authority.”
Local independent councillor Paul Berry, who reported the incident to DfI Rivers, has described it as “not acceptable”.
He said: “My position is that if Rivers Agency continue to ignore this serious issue then I believe we as Council should intervene on public health grounds and also to protect our tourism offering at Clare Glen and then invoice Rivers Agency for the works as they are responsible for the river.
“Of course, the health and safety of our staff is paramount but I’ve been pressing for action on this dreadful issue.”
A Council spokesperson said: “When we receive a report of a dead animal carcass in public areas, we will carry out an inspection and consider if it is Council responsibility to recover and dispose of it.
“Visits have been conducted to the site in order to assess the situation. We wish to reassure the public that it does not pose a threat to groundwater quality or to human and animal health.
“However, given the potentially upsetting nature of the matter, Council has engaged a third party to remove the fallen animal.”
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