asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware of the concern of fishermen and others living along the coast of south-east Cork at the inadequacy of the new system for waste disposal adopted by a chemicals firm (name supplied) in County Cork.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Waste Disposal.
17.
The firm in question has been granted a licence under the Fisheries Acts to dump waste at sea. I am not aware of any inadequacy in the terms of the licence which could give rise to concern as suggested by the Deputy.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there is a certain amount of disquiet in the area about the dumping of chemicals by this firm? Would he ensure that the regulations which have been laid down will be strictly adhered to?
The regulations laid down are of a stringent nature. The firm in question is a big firm giving a good deal of employment and we were most anxious to co-operate with them. At the same time, we were not prepared to give them any concessions which would be harmful to fish life. The information at my disposal is that we got full cooperation from the firm and were able to work out a system which was satisfactory to all and gives the firm the facilities they require and preserves sea life. According to the lengthy, detailed statement submitted to me, the position is quite satisfactory.