Rogue suppliers of so-called 'smoky coal' and 'wet wood' in Cork are proving difficult to stop, simply moving their operations elsewhere when detected, according to senior council management. Ted O’Leary, of Cork County Council's environment directorate, said the local authority is trying to crack down on rogue traders supplying ‘smoky coal’ and ‘wet wood’, which he says is being smuggled into the country. It has been illegal since 2022 to sell smoky coal, but under current legislation, it is not illegal for householders to use it, he said. “It was blatantly obvious what was going on [somebody burning smoky coal]," he said. "What are we doing with inspections of houses?”Mr O’Leary said council inspectors are targeting wholesale fuel suppliers and not homeowners.

Source: Irish Examiner February 02, 2026 15:00 UTC