Byrne calls for EPA to review storage of toxic materials in residential areas

Fine Gael Dublin South Central TD, Catherine Byrne, has today (Monday) called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD, to conduct a review of the storage of toxic materials in residential areas following the fire at the Oxigen recycling plant in Ballymount.

“This weekend’s fire at the Oxigen recycling facility in Ballymount has made us all aware of the dangers of the storage of toxic materials in residential areas. I am asking Minister Hogan and the EPA to conduct a review of the licensing of waste plants in residential areas and to re-examine the regulations concerning the storage of toxic materials in such plants.

“It is also crucial that Oxigen carry out their own review of how this fire took place, particularly in light of reports that asbestos, argon and oxyacetylene were stored at the facility, which is close to family homes.

“The EPA warning to local residents in Walkinstown, Crumlin, Drimnagh and Inchicore to keep their windows closed served to highlight the dangers posed by the toxic fumes from this fire. Such fumes are a health hazard for both the young and the elderly and indeed anyone suffering with asthma. I will be raising this matter with Minister Hogan in the Dáil this week.”

ENDS