The operator of a sea angling business in Wicklow Harbour has spoken out over a faulty storm drain pipe that has been pumping raw sewage into the water next to his berth.
Kit Dunne of Wicklow Boat Charters told the Wicklow People that he has brought the problem with the South Quay outflow pipe to harbour officials and local councillors “time and again” over a number of years.
“I’m investing in a new vessel at a cost of €300,000 and I don’t see how I can develop my business if my new boat is right beside a stinking sewer,” he said.
The harbour, which is also used regularly by Wicklow Swimming Club, was recently subject to a no-swim notice due to pollution from the storm water overflow.
Meanwhile, Cllr Mary Kavanagh recently engaged with Dunne on the matter and said she is following up with the relevant officials.
“Sewage shouldn’t be mixing with surface water and coming out of a overflow storm drain,” she said. “I don’t know yet what is causing it but it is totally unsatisfactory to have sewage going into the harbour. The smells are appalling and you can only imagine the damage that is being caused to marine and sea life.”
The Wicklow People has more on the story HERE.
