asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether recent press reports of the dumping on the Irish market of unidentified pottery, samples of which were stated to have exhibited lead release far in excess of the safety standard set by the IIRS, have been found to be accurate; and, if so, if he will state the steps he intends to take to ensure that this dumping is discontinued in the interests of public health and jobs in the Irish pottery industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pottery Dumping.
20.
Certain ceramic articles submitted by a client to the IIRS showed that leaching levels were higher than that set out in the voluntary Irish Standard Specification. Details as to origin or as to whether these articles are on the market here were not revealed to the institute.
The question of making the Irish Standard compulsory as an interim measure pending the adoption of an EEC directive on this subject is under active consideration within my Department.
As to the separate allegation of dumping, I am advised that An Coimisiún Dumpála are considering a recent complaint. I am awaiting a report from An Coimisiún.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary indicate when he expects the report?
The report was submitted by the firms concerned in the last week. I understand preliminary investigations are taking place by An Coimisiún to see if there is prima facie evidence of a nature that would justify a full scale inquiry. That preliminary investigation is not yet completed.