asked the Minister for Local Government what steps are being taken to combat the increasing dangers from air pollution in Dublin.
25.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Pollution.
24.
asked the Minister for Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a report that air pollution in this country is creating a serious health hazard; and what measures he proposes to take to deal with this problem.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 25 together.
I would refer the Deputies to my reply to Question 11 of 12 December, 1968, in which I indicated that draft regulations to deal with the heavier smoke emissions are in the final stage of preparation and that comments on the draft will be invited from interested persons or bodies before the regulations are made.
It is not considered that the general level of air pollution occurring in this country at present is of an intensity to cause concern. The matter is, however, being kept under review.
Has the Minister seen the report which appeared in the newspapers from one expert who is studying this problem exclusively?
I have seen reports in the newspapers, yes.
Is the Minister now stating that the expert who reported on this is wrong?
You cannot accept everything that you read in the newspapers.
That is true, anyway.
There is a certain amount of air pollution. It is not of such an intensity as to cause concern but the regulations are almost drafted now and the matter is in hand.
Is the Minister aware of the fact that Doctor Chapman, who conducts a study in Baggot Street Hospital into this problem, has stated that urgent measures must now be taken to deal with this matter; that this is a matter of urgency for people who suffer from lung trouble? The Minister now has the audacity to say it is not a matter for concern.
Measures are being taken and the matter is not such as to cause any serious concern.