Following an extended period of warmer weather we are now, once again, entering the heating season, Donegal County Council is reminding householders in the Letterkenny and environs area that there is a ban on the burning of "Smoky" Coal.
Such is the importance of delivering cleaner air to our communities, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government Alan Kelly T.D. has recently outlined plans to extend the health benefits of the smoky coal ban nationwide.
Since May 2013 householders in Letterkenny have played their part by only using smokeless fuels. These actions have resulted in improved air quality in Letterkenny for all those living, working and visiting the town. We ask that households continue to make cleaner fuel choices by only burning smokeless fuels such as;
smokeless coal, remember, bags must be clearly labelled smokeless coal,
wood, kindling, fire logs, fire starter logs,
turf or turf products.
It is the obligation of the householder to comply with the smoky coal ban when burning fuel. If as a householder you are unsure which is the best product for you, you should discuss the many different types of smokeless fuels that are available with your local coal merchant.
The other key part of this legislation is that coal retailers and coal merchants are not permitted to market, sell or distribute smoky coal inside the ban area. Donegal County Council is currently involved in multi-agency enforcement activities in conjunction with Revenue on the coal retail / merchant sector. Part of these enforcement activities also involves the inspection of delivery lorries. New legislation has also made provision for fixed penalty notices for breaches of the legislation within the coal sector ranging from €250 - €1,000.
It is important to remember that the sole purpose of this law is to deliver cleaner air. It is only through the continued support of householders, coal retailers and merchants that improvements in air quality will continue.
Donegal County Council encourages members of the public to report instances of the flouting of the law, which will result in enforcement action being taken by the Council.
For more information or to report a breach of the law contact
Dearn McClintock,
Waste Regulations Officer,
Donegal County Council,
Three Rivers Centre,
Lifford.
Tel: (074) 91 53900
Email: [email protected]
or
The Department of Environment, Community and Local Government on 1890 20 20 21 or visit www.environ.ie
Select an option below
