The Environmental Protection Agnecy has identified the compound as creosote. Creosote can cause serious health problems if ingested.
Waterford City Council believe that the dumping was carried out by Belview Container Cleaners Limited one of whose directors is listed in the company office as being former councillor Maurice Downey.
Mr Downey was overseeing the removal of creosote at Frank Cassen Wharf earlier today. A spokesperson for Coastwatch said the removal operation was being mishandled and called on government agencies to take over the process.
