AFTER FIVE weeks of deliberations, An Bord Pleanála’s hearing into a proposed incinerator on a 12-acre site at Ringaskiddy in Co Cork drew to a close yesterday.
An Bord Pleanála inspector Öznur Yucel-Finn must now make a conclusive decision on the evidence presented to the hearing.
A decision on the eight-year planning battle between local residents and incinerator backers Indaver Ireland is expected this year.
Yesterday’s presentations consisted of closing submissions from community representatives, statutory bodies, the Cork Harbour Alliance for a Safe Environment and Indaver Ireland.
In his closing statement, the director of Indaver Ireland, John Ahern, said that there was a proven need for the proposed incinerator.
“That need is consistent with the National Hazardous Waste Management Plan, does not prejudice any objective in the Cork City Waste Management Plan 2004-2009 or the Waste Management Plan for Cork County 2004-2009.”
He added that the proposed development was consistent with the objective to promote the recovery of energy from waste.
In her closing statement, alliance chairwoman Mary O’Leary spoke of the multiple levels on which the proposal failed good planning criteria.
She said that the site selection was wrong and the technology to be employed was unsuitable.
“We rely on the moral and ethical considerations as well as the policy process that will guide you – the board – in your decision making.
“Indeed, we rely on the axiom of ‘public interest’ to direct you in that decision, and in restoring the faith of this community that our concerns will be listened too this time.”