25 July 2001

POLLUTION INCIDENT AT KILLYMOON RIVER

DRD Water Service had to carry out an emergency tankering operation following the discovery of an unauthorised discharge into the Killymoon River at Sandholes, Cookstown.

An urgent investigation was held at the site after the Water Service received reports of the pollution incident on 24 July from the Environment and Heritage Service. The investigation revealed signs of an unauthorised discharge to the upstream sewer.

Water Service staff immediately organised emergency tankering to intercept the incoming flow to the works and reduce the continuing effect of any pollutant on the river. The tankering continued throughout the 25 July 2001.

A spokesperson for the DRD Water Service said: "Water Service is co-operating closely with the Environment and Heritage Service and Fisheries Conservancy Board to investigate the source and type of pollutant involved.

"Although heavily loaded the works performs well under normal operating conditions and has complied with the discharge standards set by the Environment and Heritage Service throughout this year so far."

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. Sandholes Treatment Works treats waste water from a population of 500 including discharges from commercial premises in the surrounding area.
1. Water Service received reports of the pollution incident on 24 July from the Environment and Heritage Service.