Write a commentThe Camlough Lake Management Committee have released a statement following a recent incident involving damage to boats of rowers from Queens University.
A Spokesperson stated "The Camlough Lake Management committee shares the anger and disappointment of the wider Camlough Community at the recent incident on the Lake where rowing boats belonging to a Lake user Group, Queens University were cowardly and maliciously damaged."
The Camlough Lake Management Committee originally formed almost 25 years ago initially by the Camlough Lake Conservation Society, brought together those local people and user Groups, who wished to work in partnership to ensure the protection, sustainability and managed development of the lake and its surrounds. Working in partnership with Newry and Mourne District Council it now manages all activities on and around the lake.
Many generations of families and individuals have over the years given up their time freely for all activities happening both on the lake and in the village of Camlocha. Events such as Feile Camlocha, the Crooked Lake Triathlon, the Camlough Lake Water Festival and the World record fresh water relay swim (2009) that attracted visitors and media attention from around the world.
Mayor of Newry & Mourne District Council, Councillor Michael Ruane said “The council have worked closely with users group at Camlough Lake to ensure this fantastic resource we have can be enjoyed by a wide range of groups. The camlough lake sub committee in co-ordinating the users group endeavors to ensure all with an interest in using the lake can be accommodated”.
Concluding the Committee added "The recent cowardly incident which involved criminal damage to the Rowing Boats of Queens University as well as allegations of verbal abuse and harassment did not come from the people of Camlough who like all responsible others wish to see the culprits involved face the full rigors of the law. We genuinely wish Queens University Rowing Club every success in their future endeavors and we remain committed to ensuring that all those individuals and groups who both live in or visit our area and facilities feel welcome, safe and enjoy their time here."
