Investigation after 'uncontrolled release' at wastewater plant in North Cork

Uisce Éireann has launched an investigation after an 'uncontrolled release' at a north Cork wastewater treatment plant, amid claims that raw sewage entered a river used by freshwater anglers

The utility said an investigation is under way into the incident at Carrignavar Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is believed to have occurred on July 25. Stock picture

Uisce Éireann has confirmed an "uncontrolled release" from a wastewater treatment plant in North Cork, following claims that raw sewage was discharged into a river popular with freshwater anglers.

The utility said an investigation is under way into the incident at Carrignavar Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is believed to have occurred on July 25.

While Uisce Éireann acknowledged an "uncontrolled release", it said there is currently "no identified impact" on fish or aquatic life.

A water monitoring group claimed the discharge involved raw sewage entering the River Cloghnagashee, a waterway that supports a small coarse fishery and is frequented by anglers fishing for pike, eel, and perch.

The Environmental Protection Agency and Inland Fisheries Ireland have been notified of the incident.

Asked whether reports that raw sewage had been discharged into the river from the nearby treatment plant were accurate, Uisce Éireann said: "Uisce Éireann is aware of an incident at Carrignavar (Carraig na bhFear) Wastewater Treatment Plant which resulted in an uncontrolled release.

"Upon becoming aware of the issue, an incident investigation was initiated, and remedial measures are being assessed.

"Protecting public health and the environment remains Uisce Éireann's priority and we are working with the EPA, Inland Fisheries Ireland, and other relevant stakeholders as investigations and remediation measures progress.

"While environmental assessments remain ongoing, there is currently no identified impact to local fish or aquatic life."

Uisce Éireann also pointed to the recently published Cork Wastewater Strategy, which identifies a long-term solution for wastewater treatment in the Carrignavar area through the decommissioning of the existing plant and the transfer of wastewater to the wider Cork network via Whitechurch.

A spokesperson said the proposal remains subject to statutory processes, funding approvals, and programme prioritisation.