Environmentalist Enda Craig, of the Campaign For a Clean Estuary Group (CFCE), is calling for the Carnagarve treatment plans to be scrapped because he said the project to dispose waste from a plant into the estuary won't work.

He claims following the construction of the breakwater project in Greencastle - which is only half completed - it is now impossible for the waste to be disposed of the estuary because the currents have been changed and wouldn't take it out to sea.
Mr Craig said it would be an 'environment disaster' if the scheme went ahead.

Dr Don McGinley, from the Moville Greencastle Environment Group (MGEG) claimed that it looks like the Council are trying to re-classify the Foyle to say that it's not an estuary, and therefore a lesser standard is required for the discharge of effluent.

Dr McGinley said the MGEG are calling on the Lough's Agency to defend Lough Foyle.

He said overall MGEG are not satisfied Donegal County Council, through the environmental impact statement, have satisfied the demands placed upon them - to prove the scheme is the best one for Moville.

He added: "They are required by law to look at alternative sites and adequately investigate them. Lough Foyle is the main asset that Moville and Greencastle has for a sustainable future."

An Bord Pleanala are holding the hearing at the Carlton Redcastle Hotel today and tomorrow. As well as hearing views from both sides, there will be a visit to the proposed site for the treatment plant as well as locations identified for the pumping station and outflow pipe at Lafferty's Lane. It's understood that John and Pat Hume, who have a home close to the proposed scheme, are to make a submission.

Mr Craig said if An Bord Pleanala rule in favour of the local authority CFCE will take their case to Brussels in a bid to prevent the scheme going ahead.