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Some of the waste discovered in an investigation conducted by LCCC
Limerick City and County Council has secured two significant environmental convictions at Kilmallock District Court this week
They say this highlights a zero-tolerance approach to water pollution and illegal waste disposal.
In the first case, Judge Patricia Harney handed down the maximum possible fine of €5,000 to an individual who failed to provide information requested under the Water Pollution Act.
The statutory request was issued in August 2023 as part of a Council investigation into drainage infrastructure and potential contaminants at a local stormwater outfall.
The court heard that failing to comply with such a request is an offence in itself, regardless of the findings of the underlying investigation. While the fine was set at the legal maximum, the matter of legal costs was adjourned to a later date.
A second, separate case involved the unauthorised storage and disposal of various waste materials. The defendant was convicted of holding household waste, construction material, and end-of-life vehicle (ELV) waste without the proper permits.
Judge Harney imposed fines totalling €3,500 and awarded over €3,100 in costs to the Council.
A spokesperson for Limerick City and County Council said these convictions are part of an ongoing regulatory programme to protect public health and maintain water quality across the county. The Council confirmed it will continue to use its full legislative powers to address pollution risks and unauthorised waste activity.
Residents are reminded that all waste activities must be carried out with appropriate authorisation to prevent long-term damage to the local environment.
