Hazardous waste washed up on Irish coast

The logs, part of a load being sailed from Dublin to Cork, were part of a cargo of seven containers lost from a small ship earlier this week.

The Irish Coast Guard thinks the logs contain sodium bromate a hazardous material which can combust or explode if added to fire.

It also warned the firelogs may cause irritation to the skin if handled, and advised people to call either the coast guard or gardaí and not to approach the debris.

A spokesman said: “Reports have been received of debris from the missing containers washing up along the coastline.

“If you see debris from the missing containers being washed ashore, please stay clear and do not attempt to retrieve any items.”

Luke Walsh