Quagga mussels originate from Eastern Europe and can threaten native animals and plants.

Environment Minister Andrew Muir urged members of the public to report any other sightings of the invasive species.

Ms Ní Bhriain told the Neil Prendeville show on Cork’s Red FM that, contrary to press reports, there is no confirmation or evidence of any other nests in Ireland other than the one that was detected last month.

Hundreds of loyalist bonfires will be lit on Friday night ahead of traditional July 12th celebrations

The head of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency said there was no quick fix to the problem, which is impacting Lough Neagh.