SONAE FACTORY, KIRKBY

That this House notes with grave concern the recent fire at the Sonae Factory in Kirkby; further notes that the factory has been the site of numerous fires and accidents over recent years, including the tragic death of two workers in December 2010; further notes that there have been long-standing complaints about dust and air quality from residents and businesses and four inquiries by the Health and Safety Executive over the past decade; further notes that the plant poses a considerable risk to residents, employees and the localfire service, as well asa disproportionate financial burden onKnowsley Council, the fire service and the Health and Safety Executive; and calls on the relevant regulatory bodies togive urgent consideration to closing the plant down permanently.