§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he has evaluated the possible risks of pollution to Larne lough, from the proposal to create a rubbish tip at Magheramorne quarry, Larne; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamThe Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland has received an application for planning permission for a waste disposal facility at Magheramorne quarry, together with an application for consent under the Water Act (NI) 1972 for the disposal of leachate from the 531W facility. Careful evaluation has been made of the possible effects of the leachate on the water quality of Lame lough and on ground water. Decisions will not be taken before the Department carries out its statutory planning consultation with Lame borough council and this will take place shortly.
§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will offer financial support to councils seeking alternative methods of waste disposal; and if he will conduct a feasibility study into recycling of domestic refuse.
§ Mr. NeedhamThere is much current research about methods of waste disposal and this is monitored on a regular basis by the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland. To date, this research has not indicated a method which, given the relatively small scale of waste in Northern Ireland, would be a realistic alternative to landfill. However, the Department intends to carry out a review of refuse disposal policy in Northern Ireland. Pending such a review, it would not be appropriate to offer financial support to councils seeking alternative methods of waste disposal.