Irish Environment agency An Taisce lodged an appeal over plans to build a toxic waste burner in Cork harbour. The group raised health and safety concerns over the controversial Ringaskiddy incinerator, fears about emergency evacuation plans and pollution risks.
     An Taisce also said objections were submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency over a second licence for a waste burner in the Boyne Valley, Co Meath. Ian Lumley, An Taisce spokesman, claimed the EPA had failed to obey a series of rules imposed by planners. Both projects have met with significant opposition from politicians and residents’ groups who mounted major protest campaigns against the plans on health and environmental grounds.
     Activists are also worried about the impact an incinerator would have on one of the country’s most prestigious archaeological sites. Mr Lumley said they were concerned over an EPA requirement to raise the emission stack at the Duleek plant by 25 metres, to more than 60 metres. Officials said it contradicted conditions attached to planning rights granted on the basis there would be no impact on the Boyne World Heritage Site. If allowed the incinerator would be visible from one of the megalithic passage tombs at Dowth, Newgrange, inside the UNESCO designated World Heritage Site.

Source: Ireland On Line (19 November 2004)