‘Where is the water going?’ Limerick business owner warned as council takes court action

The owner of a service station near Kilmallock, County Limerick, has been warned he must appear in court to address proceedings brought against him by Limerick City and County Council.

Waste Water Disposal Concerns

James Beechinor is being prosecuted for alleged non-compliance with a notice issued under the Local Government Pollution Act 1997. The notice, dated September 21, 2023, requires him to provide information regarding the disposal of wastewater from a car wash on the premises.

The case has been before Kilmallock Court multiple times over the past 18 months, but Mr. Beechinor has not yet attended in person.

During a recent hearing, solicitor Will Leahy, representing the local authority, stated the council remains concerned and has not received the requested information. Barrister Nicholas Hall informed the court that his client suffers from ill-health and has submitted documentation explaining his absences.

Mr. Leahy expressed doubt that Mr. Beechinor would be able to attend future hearings, stating, “Looking at these, I don’t believe with his physical difficulties that he will ever be able to hear this case.”

Judge Patricia Harney noted the council’s request was “very reasonable” and emphasized “the State deserves to know where the waste water will go.” She suggested that an engineer or manager from the service station could appear on Mr. Beechinor’s behalf, stating, “He’s effectively avoiding the whole thing,” and “There are other people that can deal with this.”

The judge urged the defendant to address the matter, stating he “needs to wake up and smell the roses.” The case was adjourned to January 20, with Judge Harney stating she intends to proceed in Mr. Beechinor’s absence if he is unavailable.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme.