Special status to protect salmon

Special status would protect Atlantic salmon stocks in the Faughan

The River Faughan should be given Special Environmental Status to protect its stocks of Atlantic salmon, the Environment Minister has said.

Sammy Wilson said the European Commissioner should take action over the County Londonderry river.

Diane Stephenson from the Environment Agency said the Faughan was one of the UK's most important salmon rivers.

"Because of the notable decline in salmon over past years some degree of protection is required," she said.

"There are around 3,500 salmon entering the river system, and we need to ensure that salmon stocks are maintained," she said.