NI Water Condemns Dumping of Animal Carcases near Lough Mourne Reservoir

06 May 2014 12:23

NI Water has condemned the recent dumping of animal carcases on a laneway near Lough Mourne Impounding Reservoir North of Carrickfergus.

The carcases, which included 3 calves and 4 sheep, were found when a staff member was carrying out routine checks.  Maynard Cousley, Water Supply Manager for the area at NI Water comments, “Those responsible for this incident went to this site clearly intent on dumping the carcases. The gates they broke down are substantial in both size and weight and you would need some sort of heavy machinery or vehicle in order to cause that kind of damage.

“These gates were installed last year at a cost of nearly £7,000 in order to prevent frequent fly tipping at the site. Over the last 12 months there have been no less than 4 serious incidents of fly tipping at this reservoir which involved not only animal carcases but asbestos and general building waste.

“As well as the potential public health hazards associated with the disposal of animals remains in this way, such incidents also create a needless drain on limited resources and mean that other priority improvements to our services cannot be delivered.   

Maynard continued, “While none of the incidents posed a risk to water quality, the additional costs of removing the carcases and repairing the damage are substantial.  I would appeal to the public in the area to be vigilant and if they have any information or see anything suspicious to contact the PSNI or the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”