Mid Ulster Workers' Party representative Hugh Scullion, along with his wife Madeline, took part in the protest which was attended by around 3,000 people to protest about the government’s failure to deal with the blue green algae pollution.

Former MP and civil rights campaigner Bernadette McAliskey addressed the event, which had received support from TV presenter and naturalist Chris Packham.

Mr Scullion said Lough Neagh supplied 40% of Northern Ireland’s drinking water and was once a major source of employment to the fishing industry especially Lough Neagh eels.

He continued: "The pollution is believed to be caused by an excess of nutrients from domestic, agricultural waste and major food processing. Raising temperature of the water due to climate change and sand dredging are also believed to a contributing factor.

"There has also been an invasion of Zebra Mussels. Nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen are found in agricultural fertiliser, which can be washed off land and into water Local people know the source of the problems, but the government seem more intent on protecting the polluters than the lough. Minister Andrew Muir claims this issue is his priority but warned that there are no quick fixes.

“Nicholas Ashley-Cooper Earl, of Shaftesbury who owns the bed and soil of Lough Neagh since the 19th century, after the Chichester family seized control in the 17th century is prepared to sell it too the government. But the Workers Party is of the view that the owner of the bed and soil should be made to foot the bill for the clean up.”