Special Scientific Interest

Lough Neagh and its rivers have been recognised as an important environmental site for decades because of the high environmental quality of the surrounding swamp, fen, wet grassland, wet woodland, dune and river bank habitat. In recognition Lough Neagh and Lough Beg were designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), a Special Protection Area and a Ramsar site in 1992, 1996 and 1976 respectively. The Bann Estuary was designated as an ASSI in 2001. These designations are tools to conserve the rich habitats necessary for the survival of indigenous plants and animals.

The Big Blue Bit

[Northern Ireland political map from the 1991 Westminster elections] When a Secretary of State for Northern Ireland first arrives, he is given a briefing about the difficult political situation here. This briefing includes a map, colour coded to show the Nationalist areas in green, and the Unionist areas in orange. One particular Minister was reported to ask what the big blue bit was...

The Finn McCool Story

The famed warrior giant Finn McCool, was in hot pursuit of his rival the thieving Scottish giant. But the Scottish giant could run faster than Finn and in a short time had almost reached the coast. Fearing he would lose him, Finn scooped up a mighty handful of earth and rocks and hurled it far into the sky towards the fleeing giant. But not knowing his own strength, he overthrew his target and the Giant Scot made his escape. The great mass of rock and clay flew far out into the sea where it became the Isle of Man. And in the place from where the rocks were taken, there remained a giant hole. Gradually it filled with water to become Lough Neagh.

Inland Waterways Association

The Coalisland Canal Branch of the IWAI has recently been formed thanks to the efforts of the Friends of the Coalisland Canal. We wish them luck in their new endeavours. River Bann Lough Neagh Association

Consisting of boating enthusiasts, anglers, environmentalists, naturalists and people who have an interest in the future and well being of the River Bann, Lough Neagh and associated waterways, spare a moment to look in on the the RBLNA.

The Loughshore Trail

Some 128 miles long, the Loughshore Trail is an ideal distance for a short cycling break. Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity and peacefulness of the shoreline, explore the outstanding early Christian architecture, visit the ruins of strategic castles, or stop off to visit some of the bird hides that surround the Lough.

Route 94: The Loughshore Trail is fully signposted and is Route 94 of the National Cycle Network.

A Strategy

Fearful as I am to mention it, the Lough Neagh Management Stategy was officially launched on 19 June 2002.