Hundreds of supporters have already signed the petition.

A Macroom animal sanctuary is asking the Cork public for their support in fighting controversial plans for an industrial biogas plant proposed by Nephin Renewable Gas near their base.

Dionne Irwin and her husband Robbie Finn have been running their Little Ones Microsanctuary in the location for more than a decade. Now they believe the plans for the site in Kilvoultra, just outside Macroom, will jeopardise the welfare of their sanctuary residents.

“Our microsanctuary was started ten years ago where we have worked to help those in need of a safe, peaceful home.” Dionne told us.

“Our sanctuary residents welfare and well-being will be negatively impacted with increased traffic, light pollution, emissions from the construction and daily production of the plant.

“Over 24 Heavy Good Vehicles will pass our property every week day, including operation hours on Saturdays bringing in feedstock that is animal agri-centric.

“The industrial site will emit light pollution that will affect wildlife (nocturnal animals such as barn owls and bats who frequent the area) and flora. There is no light pollution at the site currently, where above our sanctuary the Milky Way can be seen on clear nights.”

The couple are also worried that “traffic emissions, biomethane emissions, digestate odour and more” will affect both sanctuary residents and their family as the prevailing winds blow directly onto their property.

A map of the location

“The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 recognises that animals must be protected from suffering, distress, and environmental harm. Yet no regulation can prevent the emotional and physical toll this industrial site will inflict on us.” Dionne added.

“Our animals have known suffering before. They came here to escape it. They deserve peace, not a future filled with industrial noise, pollution, and stress. No law or regulations can make this okay.”

“We are calling for immediate intervention before it’s too late – not just for our sanctuary, but for the principle that rescued animals deserve lifelong protection.”

You can find out more and sign the petition over here. Worried locals have also set up a Facebook page, Macroom Biogas Concern Group, for anyone seeking more information.