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Port company responds to safety concerns

Wednesday, 16 April 2008

MINISTER for Transport and the Marine, Noel Dempsey, is being urged to examine the suitability of Dublin Port as a location for storing petroleum and other flammable liquids.
However, Dublin Port Company insists that the storage facilities operated by the oil companies at the port are managed to the highest international safety standards.
Cllr Bronwen Maher (GP) made the call following planning applications to the city council for 15 extra fuel storage tanks for the port area.
"The area I represent in Clontarf and Fairview is a residential area located close to Dublin Port's oil storage facilities,” said Cllr Maher.
“I strongly believe that fire safety concerns should dictate that we find another location for storing fuel away from this densely populated area in line with the best safety and environment controls.”
Cllr Maher said the massive fire at the Buncefield oil terminal in Hertfordshire in southeast England, in December 2005, was a timely reminder of the dangers of living close to a major oil storage facility.”

"Three of the proposed new storage tanks will be classified as 'Seveso' sites,” she stated.
“Seveso is an EU classification which means the site is a possible major accident hazard area.
“Some of the new tanks will also be able to store biofuels which present even more challenges for fire safety as biofuels are water soluble.
"I am now questioning the wisdom of locating these tanks beside the sea and close to a built-up residential area.”
According to Cllr Maher, the Government is carrying out a comprehensive study of the role of Dublin Port in the context of overall national ports policy. “Strategic planning considerations should dictate that any expansion plans for the port are put on hold until this study is completed," she added.
A spokeswoman for Dublin Port Company said storage facilities operated by the oil companies at Dublin Port adhere to the highest international safety standards.
“This is in compliance with the strictest regulatory requirements and is subject to regular and thorough inspections by external agencies including the Health and Safety Authority,” she stated.
“Following the Buncefield incident, Dublin Port Company carried out a review of the oil storage facilities within the port and we are satisfied that the issues which caused the Buncefield fire do not apply in Dublin Port.
“Dublin Port Company works closely with oil companies to ensure they operate to the highest standards.
“In addition, Dublin Port Company, together with Dublin Fire Brigade and other emergency services, conduct regular drills to ensure our ability to respond effectively to any incident within the port,” the spokeswoman added.

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