CHASE PRESS RELEASE - 31st July, 2008
CHASE Supports Residents Continued Fight Against Toxic Incinerator
Adding Incinerator To Existing Toxic Burden Will Never Be Acceptable
_______________________________________________

Today’s decision by the Supreme Court not to adjourn legal proceedings regarding the Ringaskiddy incinerator until after the European Court has ruled on a European Commission (EC) Case* against Ireland, clears the way for the High Court challenge to proceed to trial.

Mary O’Leary, CHASE Chairperson said “We are glad that the European Commission is taking Ireland to the European Court on this point. This is one of the legal points in the residents’ cases against the EPA and Bord Pleanala, and relates to Ireland’s failure to properly implement the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive. This has meant that Health and the Environment have not been properly assessed in respect of the proposed Ringaskiddy incinerator. We had asked the Supreme Court to allow the residents’ cases to be adjourned to await the result of the Commission’s case.

Over 30,000 people objected to this incinerator, with health and environment being central to their opposition. These health and environmental concerns are currently being highlighted at Haulbowline, which is adjacent to the proposed incinerator site. The toxic waste uncovered on Haulbowline has proved a wake up call for Cork Harbour, and has underlined a situation where the relevant authorities have failed to protect the community and the environment. Recent Cancer Registry Statistics show Cobh Urban Area to have a cancer incidence 44% higher than the national average - Adding an incinerator to the existing toxic burden will never be acceptable."

CHASE will continue to support the Harbour residents in their long running battle to keep toxic incineration out of Cork Harbour.

ENDS

*Ireland is being taken to the European Court on the grounds of non-compliance with the EC Directive on Environmental Impact Assessment. The current request for adjournment arose during proceedings which saw an application for discovery brought against the State by the applicants, after the State refused to provide correspondence from the EC warning the State of impending European Court proceedings.

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