Naas Fire Still Burning

Despite incessant attempts by a number of fire crews to contain it, the Kerdiffstown dump fire it still burning, three weeks on.

Fire crews from four counties continued their fight against the landfill fire at Kerdiffstown, Naas over the weekend.

The crews are now focusing on the use of nitrogen to help control the fire, which has seen some success and will continue tonight and during the coming days.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), temperatures at the site of the fire have fallen and smoke levels are down. Despite continuing improvements in air quality, health authorities said they are maintaining their advice that people should avoid any smoke plume and stay inside, with windows and doors shut, whenever it is passing over their houses or other premises.

Currently, wind conditions have directed the smoke away from residential areas but the warning has been directed to people sensitive to the effects of smoke. Those with existing respiratory or cardiac problems, young children and the elderly may experience symptoms. The HSE has advised that people with symptoms should reduce their level of activity, take medications as prescribed and consult their doctor.

Meanwhile today, a separate report from the EPA published today found 16 of Ireland's 29 active landfill sites will be full within the next three years.

The National Waste Report for 2009 records an 8.4% decline in municipal waste generated, which is a return to 2004 levels.

There has also been an 11% decrease in the amount of waste going to landfill. The recycling rate recorded in 2009 was 35%, which is close the European norm of 40%.

The report draws attention to Co Donegal, which it says has a 'critical capacity shortage'. The one landfill operating there is expected to close by the end of this year, according to the EPA.

(DW/GK)