Ireland tackles the problem of toxic waste

Northern Ireland Environment Agency and Crimestoppers have joined forced in a bid to stop the dumping of toxic sludge in the country.

The campaign's aims are specific, hoping in particular to target the dumping of toxic waste from fuel laundering plants. This waste is full of highly polluting chemicals which are incredibly dangerous.

Not only does this type of toxic waste severely harm the environment, it is also a huge strain on the everyday person of Northern Ireland.

Lots of money is put into remedying the dumping - with specialists having to intricately assess the waste and act accordingly.

This process is extremely costly and comes straight from the taxpayer's pocket.

The money used for this procedure could be put towards more nationally pleasing beneficial projects, such as schools, hospitals and retirement funds.

However, the procedure is, sadly, necessary.

Without quick and effective reaction to the dumping of toxic waste, further damage is likely to occur to Northern Ireland's wildlife, air, land and water.

Stormont's environment minister Alex Attwood told the Belfast Telegraph that the illegal dumping of toxic waste is a frequent occurrence in the country, and that it is rare that an incident won't be reported in a week.

He has called upon the people of Northern Ireland to come forward with information about those guilty of the crime.

"The key to stopping this dumping lies in obtaining information on the people who do it," he said.

Mr Attwood believes that prevention of this crime is a nationwide effort, where people must come forward for the good of their country.

He urges people to report the crime to Crimestoppers, where they can give confidential and anonymous details.

"We owe it to future generations to do what we can to stop this poisoning of our environment," he concludes.