During a meeting of the Limerick No 1 Rural District Council, concerns were raised regarding the pollution of the Mulcaire River near Annacotty. Sub-Sanitary Officer Hayes presented a letter stating that several cow carcasses had been found floating in the river. He sought approval from the Council to incur the cost of approximately £2 to remove and bury the carcasses.

Council members expressed their alarm at the situation, highlighting the potential consequences of allowing such pollution to continue unchecked. Mr Lane emphasized that if this issue was left unaddressed, it could have a detrimental impact on the river, leading to the contamination of water sources for cattle. Mr Bugler added that the presence of six carcasses near his land had made the water undrinkable for his own cattle.

Mr Lane called for appropriate action to be taken to prevent further complaints. He suggested involving the authorities, such as the police, to ensure that the owners of the dead cattle would be held responsible for their proper disposal. By initiating an investigation and posting notices, the parties responsible would be prompted to take immediate action.

The condition of the river was described as resembling a state of siege, with the presence of carcasses attracting crows, vultures, magpies, and other scavenging birds. The stench emanating from the decaying animals made it unbearable for people to walk along the riverbank within a mile’s distance.

To address the issue, the Council made an order to have the carcasses buried. This decision aimed to mitigate the pollution and restore the river’s condition.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 07 June 1904