North Antrim Assembly
candidate Cllr Orla Black has strongly condemned those who dump unwanted
household and other goods in local rivers and in ditches. She has been
particularly incensed by the sight of such items as discarded washing machines,
trolleys and mattresses in local rivers and has been informed that there is one
area in particular just outside Cushendall where dumping
has continued for quite some time despite reports to various organisations
being made.
Cllr Black said:
“Dumping unwanted items in rivers is something that the authorities must take
action to prevent. Where those responsible can be found they should be
prosecuted.
“These items are not
only unsightly but also pose a serious hazard to the environment, the fish and
other forms of wild life in and along the rivers.
“As an area of
outstanding natural beauty and one of our most important tourist locations a
strong message must be sent out that dumping in rivers will not be tolerated.
“As a strong advocate
for a cleaner safer environment I want to see regulations tightened and if
necessary the law changed to ensure we keep our rivers and countryside as free
as possible from pollution. I have
informed the various organisations who are responsible for such actions and
will ensure that this illegal dumping is stopped once and for all.”