Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

I wish to share my short time with Deputies Stanton, Clune and Hogan.

I recognise the Minister's commitment to the environment which is not in question here. I also recognise that information we have seen in respect of this site and its handling raises serious concerns. I do not want to get into issues of relationship between sub-contractors and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. My issue is one of public health. This is a site in the middle of Cork Harbour which is not safe, as information from independent sources suggests. That is why I questioned the Minister's statement which attempted to reassure people that there is no risk to public health.

I will raise four specific issues. Last December, a shoreline sample was taken, the results of which I have in front of me.

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