Mystery of Claddagh swans turning up coated in oil

Galway Corporation was yesterday investigating the cause of pollution that affected 30 of the Claddagh basin's swans. More birds coated in oil were turning up in the basin yesterday evening.

Some 20 of the distressed swans were brought to a sanctuary in Roscommon by members of the Galway Society for the

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Mr Tony Luff of the Galway Swan Sanctuary, after reports of the incident yesterday.

One swan died and 19 others were treated with chemical solution and dried under lamps. Another four birds were being treated in Galway. Ms Chris Kearney of the GSPCA thought another bird would not survive.

"The stuff on the birds smells like diesel," Mr Luff said. The harbour office confirmed that there was no pollution in the harbour area.

Earlier in the week the Irish Marine Emergency Service held a training exercise in the Galway docks. Mr Joe Gavin, Galway city manager, said the source of the pollution was still a mystery. His officials had been out checking all day. "We are trying to arrange a shelter for the birds when they are returned from Roscommon, and we are pursuing the matter," he said.