Vol. 384 No. 5
asked the Minister for the Environment if he will make special funds available to Cork County Council in view of the concern being expressed by residents in the Ringaskiddy, Carrigaline and Crosshaven area over emissions from factories in these areas; and if he will investigate and publish the results of their investigation on the levels of emissions from these factories.
162.
asked the Minister for the Environment if he has satisfied himself that Cork County Council have the necessary expertise to monitor emissions, both sea and air, from factories in the Cork harbour area.
163.
asked the Minister for the Environment if he has had complaints about the level of emissions from factories in the Cork harbour area.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 161, 162 and 163 together.
There are not special funds available from my Department for investigation of emissions. Complaints in relation to such emissions and any necessary follow-up action are a matter for the relevant local authority, in this case Cork County Council, who have adequate powers available to them to deal with any breaches of planning permissions, or any air or water pollution problems or other nuisances arising, and to take appropriate follow-up measures. I am satisfied that Cork County Council has a high degree of expertise directly available to it for these purposes, which may, as necessary, be augmented by advice and assistance from my Department, semi-State bodies or competent private consultants, so as to enable it to monitor, as required, emissions from factories in the Cork harbour area to waters and to the atmosphere.
