A WHISTLEBLOWER who tipped off Donegal County Council about allegations of illegal dumping by the county’s biggest waste collection company will be allowed to remain anonymous, a judge has ruled.
Judge Paul Kelly made his decision at a sitting of Letterkenny District Court in a case being brought by the council against Manorcunningham man Jim Ferry, owner of Ferry’s Refuse.
Mr Ferry is facing 12 illegal dumping charges dating back to 2010 and 2011.
A barrister for Mr Ferry had asked the court for the identity of the person whose information led to the allegations. He also wanted to know if the person was a disgruntled former member of staff.
Patrick McMullin, solicitor for the council, said releasing the name of the whistleblower would damage the council’s relationship with members of the public who were the eyes and ears of the council.
Judge Paul Kelly agreed and ruled the identity of the informant should remain secret. He also refused to make comment on whether or not the person was an ex-employee of Ferry’s Refuse.
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