Written question asked by Lord McCrea of Magherafelt and Cookstown (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 24 January 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 January 2006. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Wednesday, 1 February 2006 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Crosshill Quarry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action was taken to identify the source of white asbestos found in Crosshill Quarry, Crumlin, in February 2005; what investigation was undertaken by his Department; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: It has not been possible to be conclusive about the exact source of the asbestos fibres found in the soil samples. This site was used for several years as a landfill for demolition waste, and the asbestos fibres identified are typically found in a range of construction and demolition waste.The Department undertook an initial soil survey for asbestos at Crosshill Quarry in February 2005, and in light of the results recommended that remedial actions be undertaken by the site operators. On completion of these remedial actions, the Department undertook a further soil survey in July 2005. The remedial actions have been effective in significantly removing the asbestos fibres in the two identified areas in the February tests.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 442 c538W;442 c538W; 46336
Session: 2005-06
Subjects: Asbestos Health hazards Hazardous substances Northern Ireland Waste disposal Soil
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk