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South Down MLA Patrick Brown has welcomed the findings of an Independent Environmental Audit Report commissioned by Warrenpoint Port. The report is a result of a unanimous motion that passed through council last year. The motion was prompted by the tireless efforts of residents and community members who started the ‘Rotten to the Point’ campaign last summer.
The report which can be accessed through the Warrenpoint Port website, gives an account of the issues alongside several recommendations which will be implemented, independently monitored and publicised to ensure transparency and accountability.
Both the Port and Regen have acknowledged shortcomings in stakeholder communication throughout the process. Regen has also acknowledged instances of non-compliance with its license regarding waste material storage.
Speaking on the news Mr Brown said "I have been campaigning on this issue for several months alongside residents who have been affected. This report simply would not have happened without the pressure and campaigning of local people who were committed to finding a solution and I believe this report is a fair assessment of the issues and provides positive recommendations to help us reach a resolution.
"Furthermore, the report sets out a number of mitigations to try and ensure this does not happen again. This includes a commitment from Regen to go beyond the requirements of their license when it comes to the dwell time and height of bales. This is very much welcomed."
Mr Brown is encouraging residents and businesses to meet with them to go through the report and its recommendations. He added "I have also expressed support for a further public meeting where these findings can be discussed in an open forum and I have received assurances that the Port are exploring this option. Lastly, I would encourage anyone impacted to read the report online on the Warrepoint Port’s website."
