asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to reports concerning the dangers of the formamide content in some felt-tipped pens; and if he proposes to make any regulations in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Felt-tipped Pens.
6.
The attention of the Minister has been drawn to a question asked in the European Parliament on the possible hazards posed by formamide.
Felt tipped pens are not manufactured in this country but formamide is used in their manufacture in some countries. The Minister is not aware of accidents or injury in this country from the use of these pens. He does not propose at present to make any regulations in regard to formamide content but if the European Commission which is taking a keen interest in the results of work now in progress in this matter makes any regulations this country will implement them.
Will the Minister arrange to have this problem and the danger posed by formamide investigated by the Department? If it is found that there is any danger to our people as a result of this, will he introduce restrictions on the importation of pens containing this poison?
I will bring the matter to the Minister's attention but I would imagine there would be a duplication of work between here and Brussels.
I do not think we should leave everything to Brussels.
There is not much point in our doing something that is already being done in Brussels.
We might give a lead to Brussels in this regard.