CHASE Press Release - 5th February 2007
UN Report on Climate Change Exposes EPA Folly
Incinerator Site, 5cm Above High Water Mark, Will Be First Hit By Flooding and Rising Sea Levels
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[See also Irish Times article and Flooding Photos.]

The first place in Cork Harbour to be affected by flooding and rising sea levels will be the Ringaskiddy site proposed for 100,000 tonne hazardous waste and 100,000 tonne municipal waste incinerators, at just 5cm above the current high water mark.

This was the stark reality highlighted by Mary O’Leary, CHASE Chairperson, at a special meeting of CHASE groups called to discuss the impact of the report by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which gave unprecedented recognition to the effects of global warming. The meeting took place in Cobh on Sunday 4 February.

• Experts have predicted that parts of Cork Harbour could be under water in 40 years time, with severe flooding and sea levels rising by a projected 28-43cm. Numerous reports have pinpointed the Ringaskiddy area as vulnerable.
• Evidence presented by CHASE at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Oral Hearing showed the proposed hazardous waste storage area to be just 5 cm above the current high water mark. Indaver's engineer under cross-examination confirmed this.
• When the proposed incinerator site flooded in October 2004, flood levels at 2.85 metres OD using Malin Head datum, would result in the entire waste transfer area being flooded.

A spokesperson for CHASE said, “The debate is over. Indaver have proposed protective measures such a kerb, but at this stage, the only moral decision is not to build the plant at all. The UN report clearly exposes the EPA folly in ignoring the warnings of independent experts and local knowledge.

We will be bringing this issue to the attention of politicians on doorsteps looking for our vote in the coming months.”

ENDS
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PHOTOGRAPHS of flooded site available on www.chaseireland.org, or Linda Fitzpatrick 087 7410849

For further information:
Mary Hurley, CHASE PRO, 021 4813070 086 8162448
Linda FitzPatrick, 021 4374506 087 7410849
Mary O’Leary, CHASE Chairperson, 021 4811952 086 8177737