asked the Minister for Justice if he will state in respect of each of the last five years the number of prosecutions and convictions in respect of obnoxious fumes from mechanically propelled vehicles; and if, having regard to the warning issued by medical authorities that polluted air is a major cause of cancer and other ailments, he will ensure that steps are taken to effectively enforce the law against air pollution by mechanically propelled vehicles.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Emission of Obnoxious Fumes.
57.
Mr. Ryan
Separate statistics in respect of such offences are not compiled. I understand from the Garda Síochána, however, that it may be assumed that the number of prosecutions is very small.
My colleague, the Minister for Local Government, has already announced that he is considering the question of regular inspections of vehicles and the matter is also being examined by the Garda Síochána.
Mr. Ryan
Will the Minister draw the attention of the Garda to the fact that there are hundreds of buses on Dublin streets every day offending against the rule in relation to the emission of gases. Will the Minister ensure that the particular buses will at least respect the law and put an end to the unnecessary pollution of Dublin's atmosphere?
I cannot accept an ex parte statement of that sort from the Deputy. If he wishes to go into that particular aspect of the matter, perhaps he will address a question to my colleague, the Minister for Transport and Power.
With your permission, Sir, I should like to raise the subject matter of question No. 10 on the Adjournment.
I will communicate with the Deputy.