Exclusive: Report points finger at recent mining operations

Recent mining operations involving the storage of water may have caused the geological conditions that resulted in the destruction at Magheracloone GAA Club. The technical report investigating the possible causes of the subsidence at Kevin O'Reilly Park identified “a unique and complex set of circumstances” as the most likely cause of the disused mine collapse.

The report identified recent mining operations involving the transport and storage of water in an old part of the mine, not previously used for water storage, which may have resulted in the collapse of some mining pillars.

The report say it's a localised issue and the company is taking all precautions and conducting further investigations.

A statement from Gyproc said: “We can now verify that the area of subsidence, known technically as the disturbance zone, at Magheracloone GAA Club is approximately 120m in radius. Within this 120m radius area at the GAA Club there is the possibility of further subsidence as the ground settles over the coming weeks. Gyproc is confident that this will be confined within this 120m radius.

Outside of the actual disturbance zone, an area of investigation including five houses and two stretches of public road has been identified.

Gyproc say they are in regular contact with the families affected to ensure they have appropriate support and have appointed a family liaison officer.

“Gyproc remains in regular contact with Magheracloone GAA Club and Community Centre and has also offered its support to replace the damaged facility. Gyproc is in regular contact with the relevant experts from Monaghan County Council and other authorities to assess the situation and ensure appropriate support measures are in place to minimise disruption.

Gas Networks Ireland say their crews are awaits clearance to access the pipeline at Drumgossett/Magheracloon to investigating any impact the subsidence may have had on their infrastructure.

A statement released by Mary O’Mahony, the PR Manager for the company stated: “GNI continues to work in close contact with Monaghan County Council and the Monaghan Fire Service to monitor the situation at Magheracloone, Co Monaghan, where the appearance of sink holes has caused ground subsidence.

GNI has a natural gas (feeder main) pipeline, located circa 200 metres from the site of the initial sinkhole. Our crew awaits clearance to access the location of the pipeline, with a view to investigating any potential impact.

Further updates to follow. Should there be any impact to the supply of natural gas, GNI will advise natural gas customers via updates to the local media.”

Last Tuesday Carmel Thornton, the AO Corporate Services for Monaghan County Council in a statement said: “The subsidence occurred over 200 metres away from the gas pipeline. Bord Gais were informed and had a crew on site last night.”

Gyproc point to a long and respected mining history in the area of over 80 years in which they have operated to the highest mining standards: “In line with best practice the company is regularly audited by the mines inspectorate,” the statement concludes.