Jimmy Harte (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the issue of the dumping of chemical weapons off the coast of Donegal which, according to British records, took place between 1940 and 1957. The British Ministry of Defence only admitted to these dumps in the 1990s. In 1995 politicians raised this issue in the Seanad and Dáil. The late Hugh Coveney, who was Minister at the time, said that by 2000, a comprehensive analysis of the situation would be arrived at. As far as I know, it has not been forthcoming, so it is 13 years overdue.

There are ongoing concerns along the north west coast of County Donegal about the nature of these chemicals and the risk to inhabitants, sea life and the environment. From what I have read, previous Administrations were happy with the information they received from the British Ministry of Defence as to the composition of the types of weapons. However, I would be reluctant to accept the word of the British Ministry of Defence because this was done during and after the Second World War when controls, which would be in place if it was happening today, were not in place.

I am very keen to get an updated report from the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government and possibly from somebody in the British Ministry of Defence to clarify the types of chemicals dumped, where exactly they were dumped, although I know there are some indications, and how dangerous they are and to perhaps get an independent expert to verify what the British Ministry of Defence is saying. I would be keen that it would be independent because I am sure many people would be wary of the UK Government admitting to dumping something which was dangerous.

I would like an up-to-date report and an independent person to verify the information given to the Government because I am concerned that material may leak into the sea and cause a catastrophe of some sort. I thank the Minister of State for listening and look forward to his reply.