Call for probe into foul smell near West Cork wastewater treatment plant

Councilllor Finbarr Harrington called for Uisce Éireann to carry out an on-site investigation to identify the source of the odour and undertake ...

Mr Harrington said residents had contacted him about an ongoing smell from the plant in Castletownbere (above). Picture: Dan Linehan

David Forsythe An urgent investigation is being sought into reports of foul odours near the new wastewater treatment plant in Castletownbere .

Independent councillor Finbarr Harrington raised the issue at a recent meeting of Cork County Council’s West Cork Municipal District, saying residents had contacted him about an ongoing smell from the plant and associated pipework.

Mr Harrington’s motion was seconded by Fianna Fáil councillor George Gill.

Mr Harrington called for Uisce Éireann to carry out an on-site investigation to identify the source of the odour and undertake remedial works if needed.

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He said the new treatment plant was important infrastructure for Castletownbere and for the town’s future development. However, he said people living close to the facility should not have to put up with an ongoing smell in their homes and community.

“The infrastructure needs to work properly,” Mr Harrington told the meeting.

He said the plant was a welcome development, but that any odour issue needed to be identified and addressed without delay. Mr Harrington asked Uisce Éireann to establish whether the problem related to the operation, design or condition of the plant, the pipework or another source.

Mr Gill supported the call, saying the concerns of people living near the facility needed to be taken seriously.

He said residents should not have to live with an ongoing odour and that Uisce Éireann should investigate the issue and respond.

In her written response, Eimear O’Neill, Municipal District Officer for West Cork, said a letter would be sent to Uisce Éireann with the agreement of members. The request seeks an urgent response from Uisce Éireann and remedial work where required.

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