Shannon air under the microscope

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has agreed to undertake an air quality assessment programme in the Shannon area.

The assessment period, which will be for a minimum of six months, will commence in the first quarter of next year and the main air quality parameters measured with be in accordance with the latest European legislation available concerning ambient air quality.
However, Kevin Delaney of the EPA pointed out that the monitoring campaign would be subject to the availability of a secure location, access and the presence of a nearby power supply for the trailer assessment unit.
“A number of other siting criteria would also have to be investigated before choosing an appropriate, representative monitoring location. We would therefore need Shannon Town Council to aid us in choosing a location,” he added.
Speaking at this week’s town council meeting, Councillor Gerry Flynn said that there have been huge problems with “odours, smells and releases” from different plants in the industrial estate in Shannon and he welcomed the decision of the EPA to set up the air quality assessment programme.
“We should be very proactive on this and assist the EPA every way possible,” he said.