Statement

WEIR WELCOMES NI WATER POLLUTION FINE

Posted on: September 1, 2009

“I welcome the actions of the Courts today in fining Northern Ireland Water for polluting Ballyholme Beach in Bangor. This pollution was caused by a discharge of sewage at Luke’s Point near Ballyholme Beach. Our natural environment and in particular our beaches are a precious gift to Northern Ireland, and we should all that we can to prevent them from being spoilt by pollution. It is disgraceful that anyone should seek to pollute places like Ballyholme, and it is particularly disturbing that a body such as NI Water which is connected to the Government is guilty of such an offence.  

I am however glad to see that the Courts have taken such resolute action against these polluters. That the matter was pursued by the Department of the Environment to a successful prosecution shows that the system is working, and that no-one is above the law, not even a Government body. Today’s prosecution should act as warning shot to Government bodies and private companies alike, that active pursuit will be made of polluters, and that the principle of polluter pays will be followed through.”