Written question asked by Peter Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 14 February 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 16 February 2006. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Wednesday, 1 March 2006 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Toxic Sludge

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the level of illicit dumping of toxic sludge along the border with the Republic of Ireland.

Answer: The Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) investigates all reports of unauthorised waste disposal in Northern Ireland under the terms of the Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997. EHS has not identified, on the basis of these investigations, a widespread problem of illegal disposal of toxic sludge along the border with the Republic of Ireland. There is currently one active investigation into a County Armagh site close to the border. Prosecution files have been prepared regarding two additional sites at which sludge wastes from the Republic of Ireland were deposited. Residues arising from illegal diesel laundering operations are dealt with by local government, or other statutory agencies such PSNI or HM Revenue and Customs. EHS records indicate that 170 tonnes of illegal fuel laundering waste were re-consigned for authorised disposal since January 2003. Most originated from the Armagh, and Newry and Mourne council areas.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 52968; 443 c785-6W;443 c785-6W
Session: 2005-06
Subjects: Hazardous substances Fly-tipping Northern Ireland Republic of Ireland Waste
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk