The Ministry of Public Works has reminded the public that pollution is considered an offence in light of an “unscrupulous offender” dumping large volumes of raw sewage in a green space.

The ministry reported that the offender is regularly dumping large amounts of the waste in the east end of the island but did not specify the exact location when asked.

Government is also aware of an incident where raw sewage has been dumped overboard at a public dock from a sanitation hauling truck.

In a statement released to the public this morning, a ministry spokesperson said: “The Water and Sewage Section of the Ministry of Public Works wishes to remind the public that the pollution of land is considered an offence under the Waste and Litter Control Act 1987 and its amendments. Similarly, the pollution of or fouling of public water (groundwater, ponds and seawater) is considered an offence under the Water Resources Act 1975. Anyone who might have information on the identity of the offender committing the aforementioned dumping is encouraged to contact the Water and Sewage Section at 278-0570 or Water@gov.bm.”

The polluted site in the east end is in process of being remediated and sanitised.

The statement continued: “Raw sewage creates a serious threat to human and animal health, particularly to those who might jog, cycle or play in the affected area.

The Ministry of Public Works has had, and continues to have, stakeholder meetings with all Sanitation Hauling companies that use its Septage Receiving Facility at Tynes Bay. These companies and their employees are familiar with the ministry’s policies and procedures for sewage disposal as well as legislation covering this activity.

“As industry professionals, it is expected that these companies know and understand the significant health risks associated with the mishandling and illegal dumping of raw sewage.”

People who commit an offence under Section 34 of the Water Resources Act 1975 are subject to prosecution — a summary conviction carries a $10,000 fine, plus $1,000 per day for as long as the offence continues. Those who commit an offence under Section 3 of the Waste and Litter Control Act 1987 are also subject to prosecution — a summary conviction carries a $10,000 fine, with subsequent offences carrying a fine of up to $25,000.

The ministry, along with the Ministry Health and Seniors and the Ministry of Environment, believe it is in the public interest to inform the community of this activity and thanks the public for their attention to this issue.