andMr. L. Belton asked the Minister for Local Government if he has any plans to curb pollution.
254.
Written Answers. - Curbing of Pollution.
253.
andMr. L. Belton asked the Minister for Local Government if he has any plans to amend the law regarding pollution.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 253 and 254 together.
While local authorities have various powers under existing law to deal with water pollution in their areas, I intend, as I have previously told the House, to bring forward such proposals for new legislation as may be necessary when comments on the recommendations contained in the Report on Water Pollution have been received.
In addition, £12.95 millions have been provided in this year's sanitary services capital programme, which provides inter alia for local authority schemes for the treatment and disposal of sewage, compared with £8.25 millions expended in 1972-73.
In the case of oil slicks at sea an early warning system is in operation under which the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre transmits relevant information to local oil pollution officers and arrangements are now at an advanced stage for maritime local authorities to deal with any slicks reaching our shores.
As to air pollution, the legislative position is reasonably satisfactory, but I am having a review carried out of controls as they relate to certain aspects of air pollution.
255.
asked the Minister for Local Government the number of coastal towns that discharge sewage untreated into the sea; if there are any regulations as to the length of discharge pipes and, if so, if they are strictly enforced; and if he has any plans to ensure that all such towns will progressively treat sewage biologically before discharge.
I have not precise information readily available as to the exact number of coastal towns, of all sizes, which discharge sewage untreated to the sea, but the greater portion of sizeable coastal towns do so. The required length of discharge pipe depends on the circumstances in each case.
It is not necessary to have sewage discharged to the sea treated biologically in order to avoid pollution or impairment of amenity. The solution in any particular case depends on the circumstances.