asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, in view of the contribution made by a firm in Dublin (name supplied) to pollution on the river Liffey, he will state why Ireland will not join in the ad hoc group of OECD countries which aims to reduce the emissions of oxidisable substances in pulp and paper production.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Liffey Pollution.
44.
In my reply on the 12th December, 1973, to the Deputy's previous question about participation by Ireland in this group I indicated the reason why we decided not to participate. I also indicated that the group report to the Industry Committee of the OECD on which my Department are represented and I am satisfied that such representation adequately caters for our interests.
Will the Minister not agree that the cost of curing pollution is much greater than the cost involved in its prevention? Therefore, would he consider joining the group referred to so as to have available their expert and detailed advice?
I agree entirely that prevention is better than cure. The Deputy will be aware that within the OECD there are many such groups, some of them on an ad hoc basis. These groups report to OECD committees. We are represented on the relevant committees and, consequently, we have the input from the groups although we do not have participation in them. In view of the great expansion of the duties of my Department, for example, because of membership of the Community, and in view of a perfectly reasonable and proper desire not to have an endless growth in the Civil Service, the decision not to service this group is a correct one because we have the material available from elsewhere.
I am aware of the fundamental concern which resulted in the Deputy tabling this question. The firm to which he refers have been approached in recent times and I find that they are in consultation with other industries and with the council in order to develop the best and most effective effluent treatment. While the matter is not solved, there is some progress being made on it.