NI firm Mash Direct fined after showing ‘complete disrespect’ for sewer network

The company yesterday received a fine of £1,000 for both charges (£2,000 in total) and was ordered to pay £900 legal costs.

Angela Halpenny, head of environmental regulation at NI Water, said: “This illegal activity by Mash Direct shows a complete disrespect for the sewer network we all share.

“This has been an extremely long and frustrating case.

“Despite engagement with Mash Direct over a long period of time, the breach of discharge consent was not resolved, which has led to today’s proceedings being taken by NI Water.

“NI Water takes any interference in the performance of its sewer network very seriously and as today shows, if necessary, we will prosecute anyone who does. The irresponsible actions of this company towards our assets and those residents living around the area is not a victimless crime and have been reflected in today’s judgment and fine.

“As guardians of Northern Ireland’s waste water network, our priority has and always will be to protect and enhance the natural environment by taking away waste water, treating it and safely recycling it back into the natural environment.

“Illegal discharges to NI Water’s sewerage network are a common problem and we would appeal to the public to be vigilant of anyone interfering with it.”