asked the Minister for Health if standards enforced in relation to the content of detergents allow the presence of nitrilotriacetic acid; if any detergents containing this acid are at present on sale in this country; and if any studies have been made on the effect of this acid on health or the environment.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Content of Detergents.
9.
There are no legal standards for detergents in this country. As far as my Department can ascertain there are no detergents containing nitrilotriacetic acid on sale in Ireland. It is understood that some studies on the use of nitrilotriacetic acid in detergents have been carried out in the USA.
Does the Minister not consider it rather unwise that there are no standards in this country for detergents?
I had better refer the Deputy to the questions I have already answered in the Dáil on dermatitis arising from detergents. I have not had any complaints in my Department either from consultants or people that there is any grave danger attaching to the use of detergents except in regard to their pollution effect and that is a matter for the Minister for Local Government in relation to the general control of pollution.
Is it not the case that standards are enforced by the European Economic Community on the contents of detergents? Does the Minister consider that accession to the Community would involve a change in our law?
I would have to look into that.