Write a commentSlieve Gullion SDLP Councillor Geraldine Donnelly has condemned those responsible for dumping thousands of litres of toxic fuel waste on the old Dublin Road, that will cost the ratepayer £14,000 to dispose of.
The waste, which is the residue left over from the illegal laundering of diesel, was found abandoned in 27 containers each having the capacity to hold approximately 1,000 litres of liquid. The containers were left on a trailer unit which was parked in a lay -by on the old Dublin Road on Friday.
The Council has been alerted and has arranged for a contractor licensed to deal with hazardous waste to collect and dispose of it it. The cost of this work was £14,000. Councillor Donnelly said "Those mindless people who dumped this are reckless and have no concern for the natural beauty of this area or the financial difficulties local ratepayers are facing. They have simply landed a massive clean up bill on the doorsteps of Newry and Mourne Council and ratepayers across Newry and Mourne and walked away with their pockets bulging from the profits of their illegal trade. Those who are engaged in this activity are only interested in themselves and lining their pockets, they are selfish and irresponsible.
"We know the cost of dealing with these drums of waste is going to run into many thousands of pounds and these funds will have to be diverted from much needed local services. This sludge had the potential to cause serious damage to local farmland, streams and rivers if it had leaked, and can could have caused long-term problems with the local water table and environment. This is a scandal that must be brought to an end. It is simply not on. The entire community should not have to pay the cost of a clear up caused by a few people whose only interest is lining their own pockets.
"I would appeal to the local community to be extra vigilant of this type of activity and if anyone witnessed those dumping this waste to contact local PSNI or Newry and Mourne Council as a matter of urgency. We need to stamp this activity out and catch those responsible."
