asked the Minister for Local Government whether continental air pollution is affecting climatic conditions in this country; and if he will make a statement in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Air Pollution.
8.
I have no reason to believe that air pollution from abroad is affecting our weather significantly.
The complex problems connected with the long range transportation of air pollutants are being studied internationally and my Department is keeping in touch with these developments.
Is the Minister aware that Dr. Cedric Woods of UCG has given it as his opinion that such effects are taking place due to pollution on the Continent? Would the Minister ensure that the information available to him is properly researched in relation to Irish conditions? I appreciate that the Minister would be interested in the results of international scientific research into this problem but I think local research would also be necessary to ensure that we are protected.
Over the past 10 years there was a noticeable increase in winds with an easterly component. Possibly for nine of those years it could have been for a different reason. In fact, what Deputy Molloy said is that because somebody has made a statement my Department may not have the correct information. I can assure him that every attention is being given to this matter and we are keeping abreast of developments. The fact that somebody makes a statement does not alter facts.
I am not saying that the statement made was factual. What agencies are carrying out the research for the Department?
An international body is carrying out the research. So far my Department have not taken part in this international body. Perhaps that is as well because Deputy Molloy would probably have a question down asking how much money we were spending on it. We are keeping in touch with the matter from here and the Deputy and the House may be assured that everything possible that has to be done is being done.
Nothing is being done, according to the Minister's answer.