Fine Gael Cork South Central Senator Jerry Buttimer has called for a Seanad debate on the proposed incinerator in Ringaskiddy after Environment Minister John Gormley did a U-turn on incineration, prompting fears that Cork might end up with two incinerators. Senator Buttimer was speaking after the Minister gave Indaver permission to expand its Co. Meath site.
“Minister Gormley has done a U-turn on incineration by consenting to two major incinerators in Ireland. But in a Seanad debate this week the Minister refused to clarify his policy on incineration, and in particular his plans for Cork.
“This is a very serious policy U-turn given that plans are already in train for a hazardous waste incinerator at Ringaskiddy. My fear is that the Minister will now consent to a second municipal waste incinerator in the Cork area. Minister Gormley must urgently clarify this situation as we cannot allow Cork to become a dumping ground for the nation’s waste.
“In particular, Minister Gormley must clarify:
– will there be a planning application for a municipal waste licence?
– will Ringaskiddy have an Increase in tonnes of waste a year it can take?
– will the site of the plant expand?
– will there be an increase in the height of the chimney stack?
– where will the plant accept waste from?
“Is it now a case of Minister Gormley saying any place but Poolbeg?”