Neighbours reach agreement over illegal dumping

17 June 2009

An agreement has been reached between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland to remove waste which has been dumped illegally over the border during the course of the past decade.

Northern Ireland’s environment minister, Sammy Wilson, revealed a total of 20 sites had been identified, containing around 250,000t of waste which originally came from the Republic.

Wilson and his Irish counterpart, John Gormley, have signed up to the framework, which will pave the way for contractual agreements to return the waste.

‘This agreement, building on the road map, demonstrates the value of co-operation with the Republic in dealing with illegal activity, and ensuring the implementation of the “polluter pays” principle,’ Wilson said.

‘This represents a good deal for Northern Ireland, and I look forward to seeing work beginning soon to remove the waste at the first two sites, and the elimination of any potential environmental issues associated with the illegally-dumped material.’

The Republic has agreed to foot the full cost of disposing of the waste, as well as 80% of the costs of excavation, removing the waste and remediating the sites, while Northern Ireland will contribute the rest.

Register now for full access

Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.

Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors. Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.

Already a registered? Login