Written question asked by Andrew Mackinlay (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 January 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 January 2005. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Tuesday, 18 January 2005 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what action (a) he and (b) other public bodies for which he is responsible propose to take in respect of the ploughing of the intertidal mudflats at Strangford Loch over the Christmas and New Year period; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Andrew Mackinlay: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action (a) he and (b) other public bodies for which he is responsible propose to take in respect of the ploughing of the intertidal mudflats at Strangford Lough over the Christmas and new year period; and if he will make a statement. [209211] Angela Smith: The Environment and Heritage Service is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the ploughing of the intertidal mudflats at Strangford Lough over the Christmas and new year period. An urgent scientific assessment of the damage has been commissioned. This will assist the Department in deciding what further action needs to be taken including whether the matter should be referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Secondary information