The site at Haulbowline Island was undergoing a 500,000 tonne clean-up operation by a sub-contractor, who shipped the waste to Germany.
But today the Department of Environment stepped in and asked the firm undertaking the removal of material to seal the lagoon, until a detailed risk assessment is carried out on the waste site.
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It has been reported that some of the waste may include toxic elements, likely to pose serious harm to the health of locals.
Accusations have been made that local authorities were aware of the extent of the risk.
An environmental expert, working for the sub-contractor, has warned that covering the lagoon goes against environment principles.
The Cork Harbour Alliance for a Safe Environment says it has no faith in Minister John Gormley or the EPA to properly address the situation.
(PR/JM)
