A SUSPECTED AMMONIA leak at a fish factory in County Down resulted in 14 people being hospitalised this afternoon.

The incident happened at Young’s Seafood processing factory which is located in the town’s harbour.

The incident happened at around 12.30pm. A “Major Incident Plan” was launched as a result, according to the Southern Trust. It provides healthcare facilities to people in the Down area.

It tweeted: “We have implemented our Major Incident Plan following a suspected chemical incident in Kilkeel.

“We are expecting 14 patients to Daisy Hill Hospital for assessment.

“The hospital is busy & we would ask the public to only come to ED if they have an urgent life threatening condition.”

A statement released by the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) said that the gas leak does not represent any danger to the public.

“NIFRS was called at 12.38pm to a report of an ammonia gas leak in the vicinity of the Harbour Road, Kilkeel. The cause of the leak had been isolated prior to the arrival of fire crews.  Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus surveyed the site with gas monitors to check for the presence of ammonia gas – all readings were zero.

“Firefighters gave oxygen therapy to 2 casualties prior to the arrival of Ambulance crews. Fire Crews from Kilkeel, Newcastle and Warrenpoint Fire Stations remain at the scene. Ambulance personnel have transferred casualties to hospital.

“Daisy Hill Hospital requested NIFRS to stand by to provide support in receiving casualties if required. At this stage no action has been required.

“There is no risk to the public from this gas leak.”