Annaclone man given suspended sentence for illegal waste offences

A Co. Down man was today given a suspended prison sentence at Newry Crown Court after pleading guilty to illegal waste offences.

Mr Arthur Seamus McAvoy (66), a farmer and landowner of Tullintanvally, Annaclone, Co Down, was given a nine months prison sentence, suspended for two years, for offences under the Waste and Contaminated Land Order (Northern Ireland) 1997.

During visits to a site at Monteith Road, Annaclone, owned by Mr McAvoy, officers from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (formerly Environment and Heritage Service) observed a range of controlled waste such as clay, soil, builders’ waste, tarmac, sewer piping, empty drums, wooden pallets, plastic wrapping, a mattress, green waste (tree clippings).

There was also a tractor tyre, plaster board, fibreglass insulation, cement, large tyre tube, plastic drinks crates, glass drinks bottles, bar stool, plastic chair, wheelbarrow wheels, wooden doors, children’s toys, bed springs, and a washing machine.

Indications of burning were also visible on the site.

Notes to editors:

1. Mr McAvoy was charged under:-

article 4 (1) a – depositing and knowingly permitting waste to be deposited in or on land without a waste management licence; and

article 4 (1) b - keeping and treating waste in or on land without a waste management licence.

2. All media inquiries should be directed to the Department of the Environment Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.