Concerns raised over air quality in parts of Waterford which is ‘on par with Beijing’
Former Independent Waterford TD Matt Shanahan addressed the issue in a recent post on social media
Concerns have been raised over the air quality in parts of Waterford city which has been described as being “on par with Beijing”.
Former Independent Waterford TD Matt Shanahan addressed the issue in a recent post on social media.
In the Facebook post, Mr Shanahan wrote: “Halloween night, I’ve been in four separate parts of Waterford where the air quality is on par with Beijing coal burning smog.
“I suggest parents out with kids on trick or treat take photos of the street lamps in their areas if they wish to complain of heavy smoke accumulation and send the photos to Waterford council next Monday.
“In this becalmed weather, heavy coal smoke can clearly be seen exiting chimneys and subsequently gathering and polluting air quality in the whole neighbourhood.”
He went on to highlight the health problems associated with smoky coal burning.
“Two of the estates tonight would not be seen as disadvantaged, and yet clearly ‘smoky coal’ is being burned.
“If you don’t think it’s a problem visit, your GP next week and ask them have they seen a spike in chest and asthma presentations since the weekend.
“If it’s your own child, have a think about what’s more important to you, your children and your elderly relatives’ health or your neighbour’s house temperature.”
Mr Shanahan concluded by calling on those in power to recognise the “very significant health impact to both young and old when the weather is calm as it has been”.
“It is time we recognise the damage being caused and pressure authorities to implement the law to deal with it,” he added.