County council doesn’t yet know cost of clean up

WICKLOW County Council is in discussions with two Government Departments over the recent High Court ruling relating to Whitestown.

Speaking at Monday’s special meeting, Council Chief Executive Bryan Doyle said he was ‘very concerned about the nature and possible impact of the cost’ of complete clean-up of the site.

‘This is a significant judgement with big ramifications for Wicklow County Council,’ acknowledged Mr Doyle.

A likely appeal by Brownfield Restoration Ireland Ltd meant Mr Doyle had been legally advised not to discuss any ‘specifics’ of the case, though he supported fully the request for a special meeting.

‘I do have concerns over possible costs. I have no estimates. I have started talks with two Government Departments. In effect, I contacted them. They are aware of the judgements but I have also passed them on to them,’ said Mr Doyle.

The Department of the Environment paid for all Wicklow County Council’s costs involving Whitestown, apart from the current case.

The council still has a letter from the Department dating back to 2011 committing to paying for any remediation works.

However, changes in Government and in Department Ministers, means the local authority are unsure if that commitment still applies. Mr Doyle appealed for the full backing of the elected members.

‘It would be hugely helpful if you supported the Council Executive in asking various Departments to continue with their support for us.’ He also said he would try to formulate answers to any questions Councillors wanted to submit to him.