Sinn Féin MLA Pádraig Delargy has welcomed a response from Environment Minister Andrew Muir on the work his department is undertaking to address the illegal waste site at Mobuoy Road.

It follows a question from the Foyle MLA submitted to the minister on 1 April, 2025.

“This site has had a deeply damaging impact on both the environment and the health of the surrounding community, particularly due to waste leaking into the River Faughan,” said Pádraig Delargy.

“It’s welcome that the minister has stated work is progressing in monitoring the site, his department is pursuing a criminal case against the former operators, and it is also planning for remediation.

“In addition, we are eager to see the final development of the new road infrastructure in the north west. This will improve connectivity to major routes and ease traffic flow for those living in, visiting and travelling through the city and beyond.

“Sinn Féin looks forward to the upcoming public consultation on the next steps for this site, expected to launch this spring, and I urge everyone to take part and make their voices heard.

“While the minister has assured that the riverbank and water quality are being closely monitored, I will continue to engage with the department and the minister on this issue.

“The people of Derry deserve to live in a safe and healthy environment — not one threatened by illegal dumping and environmental neglect.”

CRÍOCH/ENDS

Note to editor: Full question and answer can be found below;

AQW 25417/22-27

Mr Pádraig Delargy
Sinn Féin
Foyle


Tabled Date: 01/04/2025
Answered On Date: 08/04/2025
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 24696 22-27, for an update on any work his Department is undertaking to address the illegal waste site at Mobuoy.


Answer:
A draft remediation strategy has been developed for the long-term remediation of the Mobuoy site, in line with an industry standard process using guidance that applies to Northern Ireland. The next step will be a public consultation.I have approved that officials proceed to public consultation and the intention is to launch the consultation in Spring. In the meantime, the NIEA continues to implement a comprehensive Environmental Monitoring Programme (EMP) at the site. This includes site and riverbank inspections, surface water and groundwater monitoring, together with daily laboratory testing of water quality at the NI Water drinking water abstraction point.