asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the increasing lead pollution of the atmosphere due to discharge from motor vehicle exhaust fumes; if he considers the increase of such pollution has a cumulative bad effect on the health of the nation; and, if so, if he has any solution to meet the problem, particularly in relation to the built-up areas.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Pollution.
4.
I would refer the Deputy to the reply by the Minister for Local Government to a question on the 17th November, 1971, to the effect that studies on this subject suggest that the level of lead emissions from motor vehicles in countries such as Ireland does not constitute a danger to health.
Under the aegis of the Minister for Local Government an inter-departmental working group is at present examining the nature and extent of air and water pollution problems, the different remedial strategies that might be adopted and the co-ordination of the functions of the various Departments in the field of pollution.
I understand the Minister to say that it is considered not to be inimical to health. Is he aware of the fact that other countries, including the United States, accept that it is inimical to health? Why should it be inimical to health in those countries and not here?
I could not give the Deputy an exact reply. I imagine it is due to the concentration of vehicles and climatic conditions in America.
Is the Minister satisfied with the expert advice he has had on the subject, because I am not?
I am satisfied up to now.