THE operator of a Scottish distribution centre is unaware if its pallets are being taken without consent amid claims they are being used for a notorious loyalist bonfire in Northern Ireland, The National understands.
The supermarket giant Tesco has ordered a probe following claims that pallets from a distribution centre in Livingston are being used for a bonfire at Craigyhill in Larne, Northern Ireland.
The pallets are not owned or managed by Tesco, but by an international supplier, Chep, whom the supermarket has asked to carry out a full investigation.
It is understood that Chep is not aware of any authorised movement of their pallets from any location to be used in bonfires.
Furthermore, it is understood that the logistics firm is working with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, along with other local authorities, to recover any pallets that may have been taken from their depots without Chep’s consent or knowledge.
Chep’s pallets are reportedly used for the pyres in Northern Ireland due to their distinctive blue colour, with other white and red pallets sourced from other firms.
Of the 8596 pallets believed to be on the Craigyhill bonfire last year, around 3470 were owned by Chep, the Irish News reported.
The bonfires are built to mark the remembrance of the Battle of the Boyne on July 12, with thousands of pallets arriving in Craigyhill in advance to be stacked into a 200ft tall tower, before being lit on the night of July 11.
The pyres are often lit with pictures of republican politicians on them, along with signs with sectarian language.
It has been reported that Chep has a policy not to donate or sell to the public, and there can be no unauthorised movements of pallets for use in bonfires.
