PRESS STATEMENT – PRESS STATEMENT – PRESS STATEMENT

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SDLP MLA BURNS: CHICKEN LITTER DISPUTE HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR EPA

SDLP South Antrim MLA Thomas Burns said the ongoing dispute over the building of a chicken litter incinerator in Glenavy is evidence of the need for an independent Environmental Protection Agency. He was speaking after a delegation of residents from the area gave a presentation to the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee at Stormont.

He said, “I am very disappointed with this announcement today. These proposals basically constitute ‘EHS re-badged’. I appreciate there are many talented individuals within this organization, but as long as it is under the control of a Minister it is still liable to political interference.

“This, coupled with the fact the Minister of Agriculture Michelle Gildernew seems to be leaning towards backing the incinerator, even though she was opposed to similar proposals in her own constituency in 2002, shows the need for an independent body to assess and advise on development proposals which are likely to have a major impact on the natural environment.

“At the same time I do understand the position of the farmers and they should receive support. Chicken litter is not ‘waste’, it’s a valuable resource and there are other ways to make money out of its disposal. An anaerobic digestion system is something that should be seriously looked at.

“Whatever the final decision, the facility belongs in an industrial estate. Lough Neagh and its shores have a diversity of habitats and the lough is nationally and internationally important for wetland birds. Lough Neagh is an area of special scientific interest, a special conservation area, a special protection area and an area of high scenic value. Building an incinerator on its shores would be an offence against nature.”

ENDS