Mid Ulster Council keeps reopening of recycling centres 'under review'

Many people have taken to social media calling for them to be reopened with social distancing in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Local DUP MLA Keith Buchanan believes they should be reopen in line with the guidelines set out by Environment Minister Edwin Poots to all council chief executives.

But Sinn Féin council group leader Councillor Cathal Mallaghan argued that the NI Executive still considered journeys to recycling centres as not essential, regardless of Minister Poots ‘guidance’.

“Just because the number of fatalities is lower than expected does not mean that we should go back to normal,” he said. “We must all continue to work together to ensure we do everything we can as a society to minimise deaths and prevent further infections. A second wave is still a threat and we must do all we can to protect life."

Mr Buchanan said over the past few weeks he had several calls from landowners and the public regarding fly tipping and he has been working with Department of Infrastructure and Council to have these areas cleaned.

“This type of behaviour is unacceptable especially during the current coronavirus pandemic. Fly tipping is never acceptable in any circumstance,” he continued.

"Sadly, NI Water have had to highlight last week fly tipping at some of their reservoirs including the Brigh Reservoir, Stewartstown and Altmore Dam, Pomeroy . I would call on those engaged in this behaviour to stop. Those responsible are not only breaking the law by dumping waste but are also creating a needless drain on resources of NI Water and other departments.”

Councilllor Mallaghan said: "In reaction to this pandemic the executive put in place measures to protect the public and slow the virus.

"Initially modelling showed worse case scenario outcome could be as much as 19,000 deaths in the north.

"As the restrictions were implemented and followed by the vast majority of citizens we have been successful at flattening the curve and so far our NHS has managed to cope.

"There has sadly been over 300 deaths and I wish to express my sympathy to all those connected to the victims."

He said that just because the number of fatalities is lower than expected does not mean that we should go back to normal. "We must all continue to work together to ensure we do everything we can as a society to minimise deaths and prevent further infections," he added.

A Mid Ulster Council spokesperson said the situation remained under review.

“They closed to allow us to re-deploy staff to priority services in line with our commitment to keep essential services operating for as long as possible, and given the context of essential travel restrictions and social distancing requirements,” the spokesperson added.

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