Complaint re: Cemax, Rathmolyon: Summary of interaction between EPA and Meath County Council
The EPA received a complaint in April 2007 in relation to alleged illegal dumping of quarry spoil. The EPA referred the complaint to Meath County Council for their assessment.
In May 2007 Meath Co Council advised the EPA that they would carry out an inspection. Despite repeated requests, the outcome of this investigation is still pending. Following further requests for updates the EPA sought and met with the Senior Engineer for Meath Co Council, on June 19th 2008. The EPA advised that a formal notification for information will be issued to Meath Co Council.
18 April 2007:EPA received complaint in relation to quarry spoil being removed from the quarry and deposited outside the grounds of the quarry.
30 April 2007:EPA referred the complaint to Meath Co Council.
18 May 2007:Meath Co Council advised they would carry out an inspection the following week.
24 August 2007:Meath Co Council advised they were awaiting outcome of similar court case in September, in order to consider the best course of action to be taken.
23 May 2008:EPA requested meeting with senior management from Meath County Council to review the status of the complaint.
19 June 2008:EPA held a meeting with senior management from Meath County Council. EPA advised it would be issuing a formal notice requesting further information from Meath County Council detailing how they have investigated and responded to this complain.
The EPA has no statutory function in the regulation of aggregate and construction stone quarries and pits.
The regulation and enforcement of quarry activities is by local authorities, under powers granted to them under the Planning and Development Acts.
When complaints are received regarding the environmental impact of quarries the EPA forwards such complaints to the appropriate local authority for their investigation and enforcement, using their powers under those acts.
The EPA also received a complaint on July 2nd 2008 in relation to water pollution and the deposition of quarry spoil against tree trunks from this site. This has been forwarded to Meath Co Council for their assessment and investigation.
