Park pollution sparks council probe

THE lake at a popular Northside Park used by locals, including children and dog walkers, has been struck by a series of mysterious pollution incidents.

Last week Dublin City Council removed swans and ducks from the lake at Poppintree Park and officials are now trying to track down the source of the pollution, suspected to be oil or diesel.

The council’s pollution control team is investigating the sewage system around the lake and believe the waste material is being dumped down surface water drains.

Contractors have been deployed to arrange dispersal of the pollutant in the latest incident, which is at least the third since early March. 

“We have sent samples for test to identify the substance and that might help identify the location and individual concerned,” a council official said.

Local dog walker Barry Doyle said he’s seen evidence of pollution a number of times over the past few months. 

“I’ve been concerned about this for some time as I’ve noticed a diesel-like smell emanating from the waters on a number of occasions,” he told Northside People.

“The most recent incidents are certainly the worst cases to date. It’s quite disgusting to see the swans and ducks swimming and feeding in an oil slick.”

Ballymun councillor Noeleen Reilly (SF) condemned the ongoing pollution, which she said has consistently occurred over the last year.

“It’s totally unacceptable that someone continues to pollute the lake in Poppintree Park putting our wildlife at risk,” she said.

“Diesel is being put down the shores and is floating into the pond in periods of heavy rain.

“The swans and ducks then have to be removed for their safety.”

A video posted on Facebook shows clearly distressed birds being removed from the lake, including a swan forced to leave her nest.

“The park is a huge source of enjoyment to people in the area and they are furious at this continued behaviour,” added Cllr Reilly.

“Dublin City Council’s parks department is doing an excellent job of cleaning it each time, but we need to find out the source of the population.”