When authorities went to inspect the County Tipperary River in Ireland, it was a shocking and heartbreaking scene. Thousands upon thousands of dead fish lined the shore, and they believe this happened as the result of someone releasing toxic chemicals into the river – most likely a pesticide or herbicide. A Care2 petition has been developed, pleading with Ireland Inland Fisheries and the Environmental Protection Agency to investigate this tragic case and prosecute the responsible party.

The 15,000 deceased fish included 1,400 brown trout, 805 stone loach, 1,820 minnows, and a whopping 10,500 lamprey, an ancient lineage of jawless fish that are a protected species in Ireland. The lamprey is found all around the world but because of their vulnerable status in Ireland, this recent discovery was a huge blow to the dwindling population.

The damage has been done, but it’s of the utmost importance that authorities don’t ignore the danger of allowing this crime to go unpunished. What if this person did this purposefully and moves on to another waterway? What if this person didn’t do it on purpose and is simply ignorant of the harm caused?

Regardless of the rhyme or reason, the perpetrator won’t learn from their immensely careless actions unless they are brought to justice. Whether farm animal, wild animal, domestic animal or fish, no animal deserves to suffer in the way these innocent fish surely did. Please sign the petition and voice your outrage at this horrible disrespect to innocent life and the environment.

Image Source: Pixabay