Galway County Council is continuing its investigations into an oil leakage off the south Connemara coast, which is believed to have emanated from a wreck in the area.
Aerial surveillance of the spill close to Mweenish island near Carna was carried out by an Irish Coast Guard helicopter yesterday morning, and was concentrated in one area, according to a spokesman.
Deployment of booms would be facilitated if requested by the local authority, but no request had been made as of yesterday afternoon. It is understood that legal proceedings in relation to at least one wreck in the area are at an advanced stage under the 1993 Salvage and Wreck Act.
There was speculation that the spill was caused by some attempt to move the wreck in recent days, but this could not be confirmed.
The vessel is believed to have been on the seabed for about 30 years. The Irish Seal Sanctuary has asked members of the public to check local beaches and coves in the south Connemara/Carna area for oiled birds or marine mammals.
It has also advised that dogs be kept on leashes to prevent any unnecessary suffering to oiled birds.
Any affected birds should be put into a cardboard box with a towel and kept warm.
The sanctuary warns that no attempt should be made to wash a bird as this may kill it, and it advises that its volunteers be contacted on (01)835 4370.
