Government’s plan to develop a medical waste facility in St David’s has been met with firm opposition from area residents, who have called for a cessation of the such intentions.
The group calling itself Concerned Citizens of St David’s have also requested that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIS) be carried out by an independent body before any further progress takes place.
Group Spokesperson Terlena Murphy, while highlighting the removal of such materials from the area, noted there to be a need to speak to the absence of clear regulatory framework regarding medical waste disposal.
“We are angry that it has been left to our community to point out these issues and the gaps in legislation governing toxic waste after members of the public discovered illegally parked containers of unrefrigerated biowaste on a public road which has now been removed,” said Ms Murphy.”
“The cumulative impact of airborne toxins from various pollutants in the area is unknown. As a result, residents, businesses and children playing sport and people who frequently use the area for exercise may be exposed to dangerous toxins and pollutants, potentially causing a risk to their health.”
Also voiced was concern as to the failure of Minister of Health Kim Wilson to consult with resident stakeholders, despite questions being asked.
Said Ms Murphy: “We have a vested interest in this community, so yes, we have a concern and we want to be consulted It’s not just about ‘not in my backyard’.
“Is there a plan for the industrial site, or do they just plan to put things there? Yes, there is a community plan, but it did not include the MediWaste facility.
“The CEO of BLDC does not view the community plan and the industrial site as one and the same. It is the same. It is St David’s all together.”
Suggested was that other areas for storage or dumping be considered other than Southside, pointing to Tynes Bay and King Edward VII Memorial Hospital as potential sites.
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