Joe Sullivan Offers Mediation to Resolve Ballyminaun Dispute

Councillor Joe Sullivan has called for a collaborative solution to the long-standing dispute between Ballyminaun residents and Walsh Mushrooms, urging both sides to work together rather than resort to legal action. The ongoing issue centers around the persistent and offensive odour emanating from the mushroom plant, which continues to impact the daily lives and well-being of local residents. In recent years, the situation has sparked protests outside Wexford County Council offices, as frustrated locals demand action, the most recent Monday last. As Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Joe Sullivan has been involved in the matter for some time. While acknowledging the company’s past & current contributions to the local economy, he remains steadfast in his belief that the conflict can be resolved through dialogue and mutual cooperation. “I firmly believe that collaboration is the best way forward,” Sullivan said. “Court action should always be the last resort, not the first step. The residents deserve a solution and the company must do everything in its power to resolve this issue.” Sullivan’s comments follow a recent statement from Walsh Mushrooms, who have indicated that they are investing in further environmental measures to address the odour problem. Cllr Sullivan, who has worked closely with the affected communities, expressed his disappointment that the matter has escalated to the point where court action may now be the only option. "I would much prefer to see a resolution through collaboration,” he added. “Nobody wants this to go to court, especially when both the company and the residents are capable of finding common ground. I’m willing to do whatever I can to mediate and help bring both parties together for the benefit of the community." This is the full statement received from Custom Compost: "The Company acknowledges the concerns raised by some neighbours on Friday, 10th October 2025, and would like to reaffirm its ongoing commitment to continuous environmental improvement at its Gorey facility. Over the past number of years and continuing, the Company has invested approximately €3.25 million in environmental enhancement projects. This includes the most recent €750,000 state-of-the-art biofilter system, commissioned in 2024, which was designed and implemented following detailed expert odour assessments. Independent reports have confirmed that this investment has delivered significant and measurable improvements in odour management and overall environmental performance. This latest biofilter installation follows a series of previous environmental projects valued at approximately €2.5 million, including major upgrades to process water treatment, raw material handling, and emission control infrastructure. Together, these projects demonstrate the Company’s sustained and proactive approach to environmental responsibility. The company is now about to invest the next phase of €300,000 in further enclosure and abatement systems aligned with expert, independently assessed, environmental best practice. The Company is a key contributor to the Wexford and local economies, with over €2 million annually in wages and salaries, and supporting the regional agricultural and logistics sectors through multi-million-euro yearly expenditure on straw, haulage, and maintenance services. In a recent interview with South East Radio, Councillor Joe Sullivan, now Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, noted that improvements have been achieved, that more work needs to be done, and that collaboration is the best way to ensure future progress. The Company fully agrees with these sentiments and remains focused on constructive engagement and investment-driven improvement rather than conflict or delay. The Company looks forward to continuing to work closely and in alignment with our local authority, Wexford County Council, as well as supporting the continued economic, social and environmental development of the local communities we serve. In line with its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) objectives and the philosophy of continuous monitoring, investment, and improvement, the Company, as mentioned, has already commenced work on its next environmental project, guided by recommendations from the most recent professional odour assessment. This next phase of investment is expected to deliver further measurable improvement during 2026 and beyond."