Incineration sparks new debate

By Evan Short
evan.short@meathpost.com

In an unusual move, An Bord Plenála has received an objection to the proposed Nobber Incinerator from Newry and Mourne Council in the North, leading to calls for the Oral Hearing to be put back to allow for more consultation, the Meath Post has learned.
According to Cllr Michael Gallagher there is growing concern around the country that nobody except Meath has been given the opportunity to register their opposition to the development.
“I have got word that the postponed oral hearing will be starting on the first of October. I have been in contact with Newry and Mourne council and they have entered an objection to this under EU legislation because they haven’t been notified.
“They are about 12 miles as the crow flies from where this is going to be built. They have held a meeting and written to Meath County Council and An Bord Plenála strongly objecting to this application and over the fact they haven’t been contacted.”
Cllr Gallagher went on to say that it is hard to believe that An Bord Plenála failed to notify the separate councils about the process.
“The reason it was postponed the last time was because neighbouring councils were not notified. I have raised it with Matt Carthy who is Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council and they have not had a chance to give their views so I am calling for a postponement of the Oral Hearing.”