Cork County Council has uncovered what officials believe is an illegal dump covering several acres of land near Glanmire.
Officers from the council's environment and enforcement sections entered the site on foot of a warrant this morning to assess and examine the area.
They were backed by gardaí and are currently assessing the size of the dump with the help of consultants who are also on site.
It is alleged that a skip hire company was illegally dumping and burning material at the site.
Cork County Council has confirmed that there were no permits in place for a dump in the area. The council has also confirmed that it has initiated a prosecution in the case.
