Regulator makes decision on Limerick bauxite refinery's dredging plans

THE ENVIRONMENTAL regulator has cleared the way for alumina refinery Rusal to extend its dredging operation.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) afforded the licence to allow the Russian-owned firm to extend its dredging operations around Foynes Port and to dump dredged materials at a new site near Foynes Island.

Having secured planning permission for the physical elements of the new dumping area from An Bord Pleanála (now An Coimisiún Pleanála) earlier this year, the green light from the EPA removes the final hurdle for Rusal.

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Representatives of the firm have previously said that securing the expanded area and a licence to operate will mean the refinery can run until at least 2039.

It’s a move it has said will protect jobs at what will be West Limerick’s largest employer following the wind-down of Nestle in Askeaton.

The licence was granted despite objections from individuals and groups which expressed concerns for the environmental condition of the Shannon Estuary.

One of the groups, Futureproof Clare confirmed it is consulting with its legal team about challenging the EPA ruling.

It is already in the process of seeking a Judicial Review against the move to give the physical aspects of the plan the go-ahead from An Bord Pleanala.

Sinead Sheehan, campaigner with the group said: “This latest decision in relation to the River Shannon to allow loud and heavy machinery to dredge up materials from around the port and to transport them further out along the estuary is deeply worrying and upsetting.”

The group say they feel “let down” by the regulator.

They pointed to the presence of dolphins, salmon, otter and other species on the estuary.