The recent diesel spill in Larne, Co Antrim, has sparked major concerns over the risk to wildlife in the area.

Caterpillar NI admitted responsibility and said the diesel had got into a storm drain.

However, the Alliance and Green Party's have raised concerns over the effect it may have had on the local wildlife and environment.

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson said: "We have a large diversity of wildlife and plant life around the Larne/Islandmagee coast, and any oil spill is extremely detrimental to these species and the coastline itself.

"The spill affects many of our local attractions including Larne seafront, Browns Bay and the recently renovated Gobbins Path, this affects not only local people but visitors to the Larne/Islandmagee area as well. The spill is a serious incident impacting one of the most beautiful coastlines, not just in Northern Ireland, but in the world. I have asked the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, what action Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is taking to minimise the damage from the oil spill, and what actions are to be taken against the persons responsible for this incident. I have also made apparent to the Minister that the health of the surrounding residents is paramount in the days following the spill."

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Green Party MLA Steven Agnew said: "The main concern from the local residents that I have heard from is that NIEA did not respond quickly in terms of notifying people about the spill and in seeking to clean up the spill; rather they are monitoring the situation.

"This has caused many people to worry about possible health impacts as they inhaled the oil and some have got it onto their skin.

"The diesel continues to drift towards Muck Island and the Gobbins, which are protected areas with large numbers of seabirds currently sustaining hungry chicks with potentially contaminated food.

"I am seeking answers from the DAERA Minister as to what measures were taken to prevent people from entering the water; whether NIEA is aware of the impact of the diesel spill on health; and what clean up measures are being taken and if the costs will be covered by Caterpillar Northern Ireland."

(CD/MH)