Dead whale creates a stink at Minerstown

Dead whale creates a stink at Minerstown

26 July 2017

COUNCIL officials have been urged to remove the rotting carcass of a dead Minke whale on Minerstown beach.

The whale is believed to have washed ashore several weeks ago but has since been shifted by the tide to an area where it is currently hidden from view by rocks.

Gerard Quinn, who stays at a nearby caravan park, said children are playing close to the rotting carcass, the intestines of which are spilling on to the beach.

“I believe the rotting carcass represents a health and safety issue and hope the local council will remove it as soon as possible. There is a stench from the dead whale and children are poking and prodding the carcass,” he explained.

“Perhaps the fact it is hidden from view has resulted in a delay in its removal and I hope this happens soon. The decaying carcass was brought to my attention last Friday but I have since discovered it came ashore sometime earlier.”

Mr Quinn said the whale’s current position is at the end of the beach in front of the caravan park which is particularly busy at this time of year.

“I would be keen for whoever is responsible for removing the carcass to do so as soon as possible given there are children playing in the area,” he continued.

“There is a lot of talk about the carcass in the Minerstown area and it could well be that the issue has not yet been brought to the local authority’s attention. I hope it now will be and the carcass can be taken away.”

Mr Quinn said there is a “terrible stench” from the rotting carcass and hopes council officials will take the necessary steps to ensure it is removed.

A Newry, Mourne and Down Council spokesman said the organisation is presently investigating the presence of the whale at the beach in Minerstown.

He added: “The Council will be working with the Marine Division of the Environment Agency and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to determine the most appropriate method of disposal.”