Mr Ian Lumley was speaking to the Donegal News after it was brought to his attention that, since last summer, turf was being dug out using a digger and the resulting holes filled with domestic and agricultural waste before being covered.

 

When this paper visited the site yesterday morning, partially covered round bales could be seen protruding through the landfill.

 

The matter was first brought to the attention of the council in July 2015, after a reader contacted this paper.

 

Mr Lumley said: “This is a serious unauthorised development in scale and impact, needing the most effective technical response and legal action by Donegal County Council. 

 

“The associated disturbance of peat also raises significant drainage and pollution risk impact. Donegal Council should seek the involvement of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to implement a remediation plan.” 

 

 

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the council said it has kept the area referred to under observation and, until recently, there has been nothing to report. However, it will be examining the site again.