Mash Direct Plead Guilty for Illegal Discharges to NI Water Sewers

13 February 2020 16:17

Mash Direct, a food manufacturer in Comber, has pleaded guilty today on two charges of breaching discharge consent to NI Water sewers. 

They received a fine of £1,000 for both charges (£2,000 in total) and were ordered to pay £900 legal costs.  

Angela Halpenny, Head of Environmental Regulation at NI Water comments, “This illegal activity by Mash Direct shows a complete disrespect for the sewer network we all share. This has been an extremely long and frustrating case. Despite engagement with Mash Direct over a long period of time, the breach of discharge consent was not resolved, which has led to today’s proceedings being taken by NI Water. 

“NI Water takes any interference in the performance of its sewer network very seriously and as today shows, if necessary, we will prosecute anyone who does.  The irresponsible actions of this company towards our assets and those residents living around the area is not a victimless crime and have been reflected in today’s judgment and fine.  

“As guardians of Northern Ireland’s wastewater network, our priority has and always will be to protect and enhance the natural environment by taking away wastewater, treating it and safely recycling it back into the natural environment, without causing nuisance.  If this is threatened in any way, we will step in to resolve it.” 

Illegal discharges to NI Water’s sewerage network are a common problem and we would appeal to the public to be vigilant of anyone interfering with it. Report this to Waterline on 03457 440088 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Ends

Notes to editor:
All media enquiries to NI Water press office at press.office@niwater.com