Hundreds of School Pupils Enjoy Loughs Agency’s ‘Water Warriors’ Showpiece Event

26th November 2024

Afloat.ie Team

Mark ‘The Science Guy’ Langtry gets help from a young volunteer at the Millennium Forum in Derry~Londonderry

The Loughs Agency’s popular Water Warriors youth initiative has returned for the third year in succession, with hundreds of post-primary pupils from across the Foyle and Carlingford catchment areas attending events across Newry, Omagh and Derry~Londonderry throughout October and November.

Hosted by the charismatic Mark ‘The Science Guy’ Langtry, Water Warriors once again delivered an action-packed blend of education and entertainment.

A variety of scientific experiments and interactive onstage competitions involving students and teachers kept the audience engaged and energised throughout.

The Science Guy takes a selfie from the stage with the audience at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh

The Marine Machine Roadshow, an immersive trailer with an interactive discovery tank, has been travelling to schools in the Foyle and Carlingford areas in the last few months, allowing children to explore local river species and engage in biodiversity games to address climate change.

Students also participated in outdoor water activities like canoeing and sailing, swapping the classroom for their local rivers to explore natural landscapes.

Additionally, Loughs Agency partnered with Allegri for a musical workshop, where pupils took the lead in developing lyrics, singing and creating an environmentally themed song.

Things get fiery with The Science Guy at Warrenpoint Town Hall

Loughs Agency chief executive Sharon McMahon said: “We’re delighted to bring Water Warriors back for its third year, reaching three towns in the Foyle and Carlingford catchment areas.

“This initiative plays a vital role in educating local schoolchildren about critical environmental issues, including climate change, pollution and biodiversity.

“By engaging young people through hands-on activities and educational games, we’re helping to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Seeing their enthusiasm and commitment is a true testament to the impact of this programme.”

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About the Loughs Agency

The Loughs Agency is a governmental body established under the 1998 Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Ireland. The Agency's goal is to provide sustainable social, economic, and environmental benefits by effectively conserving, managing, promoting, and developing the fisheries and marine resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas.

The Agency's governing legislation confers several specific functions, including the promotion of development of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough for commercial and recreational purposes in respect of marine, fishery, and aquaculture matters. Moreover, the Agency is responsible for managing, conserving, protecting, improving, and developing the inland fisheries of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Additionally, the Agency has the task of developing and licensing aquaculture, as well as the development of marine tourism.

The Loughs Agency reports to the North South Ministerial Council and its government Sponsor Departments, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, and the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC) in Ireland. The Departments fund the Agency on an equal basis.

The Loughs Agency's focus on sustainable development is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, environment, and local communities in the Foyle and Carlingford areas. The Agency's efforts to conserve and enhance the region's marine resources, including fisheries and aquaculture, are expected to benefit local communities, promote tourism, and contribute to economic growth.

In conclusion, the Loughs Agency plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable social, economic, and environmental development of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Its work on marine conservation and development is crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of the region's natural resources and in promoting sustainable economic growth.