Concerns over blasting at quarry

CONCERNS over recent blasting at Belcarrig Quarry, Ballycanew, were raised at last week’s meeting by Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin.

He said that though the continuation of quarry operation was refused permission by An Bord Pleanála, work continues. He feared for the impact on the bedrock and the water table. ‘Residents are at their wits end,’ he said.

The meeting was told the application is now subject to judicial review, and this could take six months to decide.

Graham Hunt of Wexford County Council said they became aware of plans the previous Saturday to conduct blasting on Monday. He spoke to the gardaí about it, who felt they were unable to prevent it. He said the council would call out in the coming days and inspect the blasting site to see if there were any concerns.

He said that while planning permission had run out, this was complicated by ‘substitute consent’ and the matter was now subject to the judicial review.

Cllr Ó Súilleabháin asked the council to contact the Garda superintendent to ensure that blasting is being policed as required.

‘ These matters are before the court,’ added the cathaoirleach Joe Sullivan. ‘We have made people’s views known to the County Council and that’s as far as we can go. I don’t think any more discussion is needed.’