Seven containers one carrying toxic chemicals were washed off a cargo boat today in a severe storm off the south coast.
The Coast Guard said the freight carrier had been hit by gale force 10 winds and heavy seas as it travelled from Cork to Dublin.
Officials warned fishermen and other boat users in the area to keep 100m from the 40 foot containers.
One is believed to contain hazardous sodium bromate used in dyes and the other six were carrying bird food, fire logs and medical equipment.
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The Waterford-based Coast Guard helicopter was called in to locate the blue and red containers 15 miles south east of Mine Head and 16 miles south of Tramore, Waterford.
PA