asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if, in view of the fact that there exist in many fields less dangerous substitutes for certain harmful agro-chemicals, he will press for international regulations in this regard.
9.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Harmful Agro-Chemicals.
8.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will ensure that information regarding substitutes for harmful agro-chemicals will be co-ordinated with a view to ensuring increasingly precise control of dangerous residues in soil, air and water and especially in plant and animal products which are intended for human consumption.
10.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if, in view of the resolution passed at the Stockholm Conference regarding harmful agro-chemicals and in view of the fact that less dangerous substitutes are available, he will make regulations to ensure increased and precise control of dangerous residues in soil, air and water.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 8, 9 and 10 together.
All available evidence indicates that the level of pesticidal or agro-chemical residues found in agricultural produce in this country is far below the tolerances accepted internationally for medical and commercial purposes. This position is likely to be maintained having regard to the rate of usage of such materials in this country.
In regard to the substitution of less dangerous alternatives for potentially dangerous chemicals, I understand that this is already the practice in the trade. In view of these considerations I do not propose to introduce specific controls on such chemicals.
My Department are, however, actively participating in the work of various committees of FAO and EEC which are at present considering the questions of standards and controls for agricultural chemicals.
How are the levels of these residues monitored in food for human consumption?
Some research in this area has been carried out by An Foras Talúntais. They have found that the levels in this country are probably the lowest in Europe.