Headache for minister as incinerator given go-ahead

AN BORD PLEANÁLA has given the go-ahead to the controversial incinerator project in Environment Minister John Gormley’s constituency, causing an immense headache for the Green Party leader.

Prior to the general election, when Mr Gormley was in opposition, he promised: “We [the Green Party] have been very clear that in government this incinerator will not go ahead.” But last evening, the bord granted permission for the incinerator at Poolbeg in Ringsend, subject to 13 conditions. Dublin City Council, which welcomed the decision, envisages burning 25% of the city’s waste at the incinerator — or about 600,000 tonnes a year.

The bord approved a capacity of 600,000 tonnes even though its own inspector had recommended 500,000. An Bord Pleanála said it took into consideration the Government’s own waste management policy — which supports incineration.