asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) to the effect that enzyme detergents constitute a possible health hazard; and if he will take steps to inform the public accordingly.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Enzyme Detergents.
5.
I have read the report referred to by the Deputy. I indicated in reply to previous Parliamentary Questions that I am keeping the situation about enzyme detergents under review. The evidence available from various sources would not warrant taking action as suggested by the Deputy. I would again suggest, however, to those people who are sensitive to these products that they should take ordinary common-sense precautions in handling them.
Is the Minister aware that the British authorities are advertising such dangers? Will he consider having the Department of Health advertise the dangers in order to put people, who might not be aware that they are allergic to these enzyme detergents, on their guard?
We have inquired from the health departments of Great Britain, the USA and Canada and we can find no evidence of the kind suggested by the Deputy—none whatever.
Obviously there must be some conflicting evidence on this. Some months ago I sent the Minister a report, which he acknowledged, outlining the dangers of these detergents.
Is the Deputy referring to the use of detergents by the public or to the manufacture of detergents?
The use and the manufacture. The danger to the users and to those involved and employed in the manufacture of them is roughly the same.
I have had no evidence whatever of the danger of the use of these detergents. As far as the manufactures are concerned they have taken the greatest precaution possible. In regard to the use of these detergents I have asked the manufacturers what evidence they have had of damage to health occasioned to people who use them. I have no evidence whatever which suggests I need to take action in the matter. I am naturally taking account of all the statements that have been made and am keeping the matter under review.
The Minister will agree that we should not wait until damage has occurred. It would be worthwhile asking the manufacturers to have this investigated by independent people here.
I am satisfied that the evidence here is sufficient to indicate what I have already said.