Haulbowline report says site poses no risk to humans

An assessment of the risks posed by toxic waste at the former Irish Steel plant in Cork has reportedly found that the site poses no identifiable threat to local residents.

Reports this morning say the assessment has concluded that although deadly toxins such as Chromium 6 have been found at the Haulbowline site, the levels are not dangerous to humans.

Consultants White Young Green were appointed by Environment Minister John Gormley to investigate any risks in the harbour area following revelations earlier this year about the extent of the contamination.

They are recommending that further investigations be carried out to establish why elevated levels of mercury, arsenic and nickel were found in water samples taken from the harbour.