Swans in Cork are being contaminated by oil pollution in the River Lee.
Wildlife in the lower River Lee near the Mercy Hospital in Cork is in danger from oil pollution. It has become such a problem that the Cork Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals had to put down 13 swans,
The oil had not only covered the birds' feathers but had affected their eyes.
With the oil burning and blinding their eyes, the swans were in severe pain and could not feed.
A spokesperson for Cork Corporation admits that finding the source of pollution is extremely difficult. In this regard, Cork Corporation are appealing to the public for help. They wish to hear from anyone who spots oil emerging from a sewer or has seen an individual or a large firm dumping oil.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 12 September 1979. The reporter is Conor Fennell.
