North Cork Co-operative Creamery Fined for Effluent Discharge Violation

North Cork Co-operative Creamery, a significant dairy processor in Co Cork, was fined €8,000 following a guilty plea to charges related to the illegal discharge of effluent into a tributary of the Blackwater river. The incident occurred at their wastewater treatment plant on June 22, 2025, affecting the Allow river in Pulleen, Kanturk, Co Cork.

In addition to the fine, the company was ordered to pay over €3,000 in costs and expenses. This dairy cooperative, located on Strand Street in Kanturk, employs approximately 100 people and is known for producing milk and butter.

The case was brought forward after Inland Fisheries Ireland received a report about the discharge, prompting legal action against the creamery. The tribunal highlighted the importance of adhering to environmental regulations to protect local waterways.