An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged improper handling and disposal of waste asbestos at a number of sites in West Clare has concluded that Clare County Council policies and procedures were not fully complied with.
The Council's Chief Executive has admitted clear shortcomings, but medical advice has concluded there is "no evidence of risk" to the public.
A former county manager and former county engineer, both from outside Clare, were asked to carry out this independent investigation in March, after waste asbestos material was found dumped on private land and Council-owned sites in the Kilrush and Kilkee areas.
Their probe found the majority of this material came from Clare County Council water mains replacement and mains repair works over a number of years up to June 2013.
The report states that proper health and safety policies were in place, but that there were "shortcomings" in the area of communications and that appropriate training was "not always provided."
A number of recommendations are outlined, including the need for a review of training requirements and the full implementation of policies, practices and procedures.
Council CEO Tom Coughlan says the local authority will follow these recommendations, while he also accepts that "operational practices that led to the improper disposal of asbestos were unacceptable."
There was no evidence to suggest asbestos pipes had been crushed, and material has been removed from the sites in question. Testing continues of soil, to establish the extent of asbestos material that may be buried there.
Occupational Health Therapist Dr. David Madden has said there is "no evidence of risk" to the general public as a result.
