An operation has begun to remove sealed containers of oil and other materials off a cargo ship which ran aground off the coast of Cork.

The MV Alta ran aground about two kilometres west of Ballycotton last Sunday.

The US Coast Guard had previously rescued the crew members from the ship back in September 2018.

Cork County Council's oil spill assessment team met again on Friday.

It says its marine contractor is "progressing well with preparations" for the removal of the barrels.

It is thought they could pose a pollution risk in the event of their spillage.

This work will continue throughout the weekend to ensure all these materials are ready for safe removal by helicopter on Tuesday.

This operation is dependent on good weather conditions.

The council is again asking members of the public to stay away from the wreck, as it is located on a dangerous and inaccessible stretch of coastline.

As part of the operation, Cork County Council is restricting access to a local cul-de-sac road with only resident's access being permitted.