asked the Minister for Local Government what alterations in this country's law and enforcement procedures in regard to motor vehicles air pollution will be necessitated by entry to the EEC; when these changes will take place; and if he intends to make any submission to the EEC in regard to developments in EEC policy during 1972
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers. - Air Pollution.
108.
My function in connection with EEC measures on air pollution caused by the emission of gases from motor vehicles derive from my powers under the Road Traffic Acts in relation to the use of vehicles on the road. The EEC measures in this field prescribe standards to be achieved in the manufacture of engines and a directive in relation to petrol engines is in force. If Ireland joins the Community this directive will become operative six months after entry. A further measure, dealing with diesel engines is under consideration but has not been adopted.
Entry into the Community would involve an amendment to the vehicle regulations under the Road Traffic Acts, which are enforced by the gardaí, to cover the use of new vehicles, the engines of which comply with the EEC standards.
Under the consultation procedure established for applicant countries, I will make any appropriate representations in relation to measures to be adopted which would affect the use of vehicles.
Has the Minister made any representations to-date?
No, not so far.
Is the Minister satisfied with the regulation which has been introduced so far by the EEC in relation to petrol engines?
Yes. I do not think there will be any great difficulty in implementing it here. It applies to new engines.