Waste Management / illegal Dumping

Superintendent Gerry Curley of Dundalk Garda Station was in studio to discuss the problem of illegal dumping that mainly involves industrial waste, taken by hauliers from industrial sites and dumped illegally on the roadside or on land sometimes with the permission of landholders. Some sites are effected by dumping of Diesel Sludge, Tyres, Animal waste and building waste, involving toxic materials.

Superintendent Curley explained that Illegal Dumping is a serious problem which has the potential to cause serious harm and that there is cross border and inter-agency co-operation. Companies and Individuals are reminded of their responsibilities under the law to ensure the lawful removal and disposal of waste. It is not sufficient for them to simply supply a licensed haulage company to remove the waste, they must ensure that it is properly disposed of and should have receipts for each stage of the process. They are liable to prosecution and the substantial penalties contained in this legislation if they fail to do so. The registered owner of vehicles along with the driver is criminally liable and the person in charge of land along with those working there are criminally liable.

Appeal:

Seeking the support of the public in providing information about the source of illegal waste, the companies and individuals involved and any illegal sites in operation or which they suspect to be used for such activity.
Want to know the particulars of the persons, vehicles and companies involved in the transporting and dumping the waste illegally.
In particular, information regarding the origin of industrial waste, which is clearly coming from building sites throughout the country.
The location of diesel laundering plants where the sludge originates.
Ask the public to note the vehicle registration and any branding of vehicles involved.
Reports should be made to the:

Local Authority, the EPA 24 hour Hotline 1800 365 123 or any Garda Station.

Where people witness illegal dumping taking place (in circumstances where the offenders could be intercepted) they should report the matter immediately to their Local Garda Station

Gardaí at Dundalk Garda Station are investigating tel: (042) 938 8400